Yorgos Lanthimos‘ latest cinematic creation, “Poor Things,” has claimed the prestigious Golden Lion prize at the 80th Venice Film Festival, marking a significant achievement in the world of dark fairy tale comedy. The film’s victory was hard-fought, as it faced formidable competition, including Michael Mann’s “Ferrari,” David Fincher’s “The Killer,” and Bradley Cooper’s “Maestro.” Early reactions to “Poor Things” have been overwhelmingly positive, with many considering it a potential Oscar-worthy performance for its star, Emma Stone, as she takes on her most ambitious role to date.

However, while “Poor Things” basks in the spotlight, Willem Dafoe, Stone’s co-star, finds himself unable to partake in the festivities fully. Dafoe not only stars in “Poor Things” but also appears in “Pet Shop Boys” and “Finally Dawn,” both of which premiered at the festival. The actor expressed his disappointment at having to remain on the sidelines during this celebratory period, sharing his sentiments with Vanity Fair.

Dafoe conveyed his mixed feelings, saying, “To be in Venice with three films and not be able to go broke my heart. But then I thought, ‘Is it just because you want to have a good time?’ I live in Italy, and it’s exciting to see friends, it’s exciting to dress up. ‘Does the film fly or not in real time?’ That’s fun.”

He continued, emphasizing the importance of filmmakers and talent participating in events like film festivals, especially for independent films. Dafoe touched upon the recent interim agreement for “Gonzo Girl” at TIFF (Toronto International Film Festival), highlighting the significance of independent companies taking part. He also questioned why larger studios couldn’t do the same.

Dafoe further commended actors who chose to participate in festivals even with waivers, highlighting the global impact of these events on the film industry. He noted, “I think we’ve got to keep it going. I get their strategy, but I also think sometimes particularly hardcore industry people, they don’t think about the world enough, the world market. If we don’t participate in these film festivals, if we don’t participate in the selling of movies abroad, before you know it, we’re all going to be watching German action movies. Since we’re here with the blessings of SAG, I don’t know why someone wouldn’t come if they had an interim agreement. I know a lot of people didn’t. I guess they’d feel like it’s not showing solidarity, but SAG endorses it and it’s encouraging. So no, I didn’t feel strange.”

Despite his inability to physically attend the festival, Dafoe’s words emphasize the significance of these events in promoting cinema on a global scale and the need for continued participation, even in challenging circumstances.