# Venice Film Festival Chief Criticized for Lack of Female Directors in Competition

Alberto Barbera, the director of the Venice Film Festival, is facing backlash after selecting an all-male lineup for the main competition. Critics call the choice a "one-dimensional selection" that overlooks talented female filmmakers. The controversy highlights persistent gender inequality in major film festivals.

**Importance:** 3/5

## Sources

### Entertainment
- [Variety](https://variety.com/2026/film/festivals/venice-alberto-barbera-lack-female-directors-1236821742/) — Mon, 27 Jul 2026 15:31:32 +0000