Kim Novak, the 92-year-old star of Alfred Hitchcock’s “Vertigo,” made a touching return to the public eye at the 2025 Venice Film Festival, despite earlier health issues. This moment was inspired by a comforting memory of her mother, prompting Novak to embrace the event. At the festival, she received the prestigious Golden Lion lifetime achievement award from filmmaker Guillermo del Toro, who celebrated her influential career, including roles in classics like “The Man with the Golden Arm,” “Picnic,” and “Pal Joey.”
In conjunction with the festival, Novak supported the premiere of “Kim Novak’s Vertigo,” a documentary about her life directed by Alexandre O. Philippe. Now focusing on her passion for painting after retiring from acting, Novak reflected on her past and the emotional resonance of revisiting it through film. She has remained private since leaving Hollywood in 1966 but expressed joy and validation during this tribute. Despite facing public scrutiny in her career, she embraced her re-emergence, highlighting the beauty of aging and self-discovery.
In her acceptance speech, Novak conveyed sincere gratitude for the recognition, describing it as a dream come true, and emphasized the importance of freedom and authenticity. She encouraged others to celebrate their individuality and shared that painting has been a therapeutic journey for her, allowing her to express her emotions and find her true voice. Novak also stressed the need for unity and democracy, urging collective efforts to uphold these values. Her return to the Venice Film Festival not only honors her legacy in cinema but also underscores the timeless nature of her artistry.
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