Venice, Italy — The Better World Fund (BWF) made a resounding impact at the 82nd Venice International Film Festival 2025, marking its fifth consecutive appearance at the world’s most glamorous film event. Held under the High Patronage of H.I.&R.H. Prince Murat VIII and in collaboration with The Higher Committee of Human Fraternity (HCHF), the two-day program once again united cinema, diplomacy, and humanitarian advocacy.

This year’s edition was distinguished by the presence of two-time Academy Award winner Kevin Spacey, who attended as Guest of Honor at the prestigious Awards Gala — an appearance that elevated the event to global headlines.

Art Meets Cinema

The festivities opened on August 29 at the historic Palazzo Nani Mocenigo with the inauguration of Dante Mortet’s exhibition “The Magnificent 7 – Masterful Hands.” The bronze sculptures, inspired by hand casts of cinema legends like Robert De Niro, Martin Scorsese, Quentin Tarantino, and Ennio Morricone, captured the intimate link between art and the creative legacy of film.

Masterclass & Forum: Cinema as a Compass

The BWF’s intellectual program featured a Masterclass curated by Enzo Di Taranto, former United Nations diplomat. The forum, “The Ties That Bind: A Journey Toward Understanding and Human Fraternity,” emphasized cinema’s ability to transcend entertainment and serve as a powerful tool for empathy and coexistence.

Delivering the keynote was H.E. Ambassador Dr. Khalid Ghanim Al-Ghaith, Secretary-General of the Higher Committee of Human Fraternity, who highlighted cinema’s role in fostering peace and cross-cultural dialogue in line with the historic Abu Dhabi Document on Human Fraternity.

Discussions such as “Framing a Better World: Pathways to Shared Humanity” and “The Human Lens: Cinema as a Mirror of Compassion and Coexistence” featured cultural leaders and filmmakers including H.E. Dr. Cheick Modibo Diarra, Carolina Terzi, Dwayne Ryan Menezes, Jihan K., Nabil Ayouch, Brad Bailey, and Joel Soler. The panels underscored how socially conscious cinema can inspire global audiences and catalyze real change.

Trauma, Resilience & Storytelling

A particularly moving session, “Your Future is Bigger Than Your Trauma,” was led by Ukrainian psychologist Natalia Kholodenko. Drawing from her own experience as a refugee, she shed light on PTSD and the transformative journey of reclaiming strength and purpose. Her message — “Your future is bigger than your trauma” — echoed as one of the defining themes of the 2025 edition.

Gala for Humanity

On August 30, the spotlight shifted to the Cipriani Hotel for the Gala for Humanity, a red-carpet evening that blended elegance, philanthropy, and international recognition. The Better World Fund Awards — crafted by Dante Mortet — honored individuals and organizations for their humanitarian achievements.

2025 Awardees Included:

• The Higher Committee of Human Fraternity – Best Achievement Award
• Carmen Maura – Best Achievement Award
• Natalia Kholodenko – Best Commitment Award
• Pavel Kir – Best Commitment Award
• Elvira Paterson – Best Achievement Award

The highlight of the evening was Kevin Spacey’s warm reception as Guest of Honor, underscoring the timeless influence of cinema in bridging cultures.

Auction & Social Commitment

A private auction, hosted by Mel Gee Henderson and Vincent de Paul, featured exclusive experiences such as a Swiss Wellness Escape at Clinique La Prairie, an Antarctica Expedition, couture by Stéphane Rolland, and a South Africa Safari. Proceeds supported La Princesse Murat, an NGO dedicated to protecting women and children.

This year also marked the launch of the “La Princesse Murat Award” to support initiatives for children with autism — reaffirming the BWF’s commitment to championing vulnerable communities.

A Message of Hope

Closing the Venetian edition, BWF Founder Manuel Collas de La Roche reflected:

“This edition confirmed that cinema and art are among the most powerful tools to inspire and mobilize humanity. We are deeply grateful to our distinguished guests, partners, and supporters for making this experience unforgettable.”

With its blend of cultural prestige and humanitarian impact, the Better World Fund at the 82nd Venice International Film Festival 2025 reinforced its role as a global platform where creativity, compassion, and solidarity converge.