Kim Novak, the iconic and fiercely independent actress best known for her role in Alfred Hitchcock’s classic film “Vertigo,” is set to receive a lifetime achievement award at the upcoming Venice Film Festival this fall.
Festival organizers announced on Monday that they will also premiere Alexandre Philippe’s documentary, “Kim Novak’s Vertigo,” created in collaboration with Novak herself.
Alberto Barbera, the festival’s artistic director, praised Novak as “a star who embodied independence and rebellion at the heart of Hollywood, who inspired the dreams of movie lovers before retreating to her ranch in Oregon to focus on painting and caring for her horses.”
Now 92, Novak stepped away from Hollywood many years ago but has occasionally returned to the spotlight for interviews and public appearances during major film anniversaries. In 2014, after presenting at the Oscars, she faced online criticism—including from Donald Trump—but responded with a strong open letter standing up against bullying.
Earlier this year, actress Sydney Sweeney honored Novak on the Met Gala red carpet. Sweeney will also portray Novak in an upcoming film directed by Colman Domingo, exploring Novak’s relationship with Rat Pack member Sammy Davis Jr.
Novak expressed heartfelt gratitude for the award, calling it “a dream come true” to be honored for her work at this stage in her life. She said she looks forward to her time in Venice, which she expects will “fill my heart with joy.”
The Venice Film Festival will take place from August 27 to September 6, with the full lineup of films expected to be announced in late July. Filmmaker Alexander Payne, known for “The Holdovers,” will lead the main competition jury.
