Venice Film Festival: In Competition

26-08-2008 12:20

This year twenty one movies from all over the world will be fighting it out for the Golden Lion as European film making takes centre stage as only five American movies make the prestigious shortlist, this being blamed on the writers strike earlier this year.

The twenty one pictures represent a range of countries and directors, from the unknown to the established talents of Darren Aronfsky and animation giant Hayao Miyazaki.

Here are a selection of films that are the highlights of this category

The Wrestler

Directed by The Fountain's Darren Aronofsky The Wrestler follows Randy "The Ram" Robinson, a 1980s-era pro wrestler, has become a burnt-out shell of his former self.

After he has a heart attack during a small-time match, a doctor tells him he could die if he fights again.

In an effort to build a new life, Robinson takes a job at a deli, moves in with an aging stripper and tries to build a relationship with her son.