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Ukraine Asks Venice to Withdraw Russian-Backed DAU Documentary

8/24/2026

49 5 Full Breakdown

Summary

Ukraine Demands Withdrawal

Ukraine has formally asked the Venice Film Festival to withdraw the Russian-directed documentary DAU, citing state-funding links.
Kyiv’s foreign minister warned the film could serve as Russian hybrid-war propaganda.
Venice artistic director Alberto Barbera called Ukraine’s complaint petty and unacceptable.
The documentary will debut on Sept. 10 at 5:15 p.m. in the Sala Grande.

Summary

Ricky Martin Casts

Ricky Martin is cast as Roby in Gael García Bernal’s film Hombre al Agua.
Martin also serves as executive producer, his first fully Spanish-language on-screen role in over two decades.
The comedy-drama will world-premiere in Venice’s Spotlight section, then screen as a presentation in Toronto.
Mexican cinemas will release Hombre al Agua on September 24, 2026.
The film is among 17 Mexican titles competing for a 99th Academy Awards nomination.

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Ukraine Demands Withdrawal

Ukraine has formally asked the Venice Film Festival to withdraw the Russian-directed documentary DAU, citing state-funding links.
Kyiv’s foreign minister warned the film could serve as Russian hybrid-war propaganda.
Venice artistic director Alberto Barbera called Ukraine’s complaint petty and unacceptable.
The documentary will debut on Sept. 10 at 5:15 p.m. in the Sala Grande.

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