Here’s Julia Roberts commanding the red carpet at the 2025 Venice Film Festival, where she made a stunning debut in support of her new psychological thriller.
Julia Roberts: A Look at Her 2025 Journey and Beyond
Venice Film Festival Debut & After the Hunt
- Venice Premiere: Julia made her debut at the 82nd Venice International Film Festival on August 29, 2025, attending the world premiere of After the Hunt, directed by Luca Guadagnino. The film was screened out of competition.
- Red Carpet Style: She turned heads in a custom navy Atelier Versace gown detailed with a damier motif in black silk embroidery, complemented by over 100 carats of Chopard diamonds and sapphires.
- Film Overview: In After the Hunt, Roberts portrays a Yale philosophy professor navigating a complex sexual assault allegation involving a student and colleague—an emotionally layered role that explores power dynamics in academia. The film provokes rather than delivers definitive conclusions.
- Intent Behind the Story: Roberts emphasized the importance of dialogue in a culture losing conversational nuance. The film is designed to stir meaningful debate—she rejected claims that it undermines feminist ideals.
- Next Stop — NYFF Opening Film: After the Hunt will have its North American premiere as the opening night film at the 2025 New York Film Festival on September 26, underscoring its awards-season momentum.
New Narration Role: Leonard and Hungry Paul
- BBC Debut: Roberts is branching into television narration for the first time. She is the narrator for the upcoming six-part dramedy Leonard and Hungry Paul, adapted from Rónán Hession’s novel, airing on BBC One, BBC Two, and iPlayer.
Legacy & Influence
- Lifetime Honors: Earlier in 2025, she received France’s prestigious Honorary César Award and was named an Officer of the Order of Arts and Letters, celebrating her significant contribution to cinema.
- Charity Engagement: She served as a key supporter of the 2025 Soccer Aid for UNICEF match, helping to raise funds for children’s welfare — showcasing her commitment to global causes.
Quick Snapshot
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Film & Festival Debut | After the Hunt debut at Venice Film Festival; opening film at NY Film Festival |
| Role in Film | Yale philosophy professor in a gripping academic thriller addressing power and #MeToo dynamics |
| Style Statement | Captivated Venice with a Versace gown and Chopard jewels |
| TV Narration | Narrator for BBC dramedy Leonard and Hungry Paul |
| Honors & Awards | Received Honorary César and French cultural distinction (Officer of Arts & Letters) |
| Philanthropy | Participated in Soccer Aid 2025 for UNICEF |
