At this year’s Venice Film Festival, a notable surge of female voices captured audiences as actress, producer, and filmmaker Maria Soccor orchestrated an intimate, late-night celebration for “Reel Women” inside the exclusive Campari Lounge. Beginning at 10 p.m., the gathering united actors, filmmakers, producers, and industry figures to highlight women’s voices and cinematic storytelling during one of the most prominent festivals in the world.
Soccor, recognized for an award-winning portfolio that champions underrepresented voices, has steadfastly supported gender balance and diversity in the arts. A frequent participant at major festivals in roles such as mentor, panelist, and advocate for fresh voices, she has extended her vision to Venice with Reel Women, curating an evening that encouraged recognition, community, and dialogue for the global film industry. Her commitment to empowering women in the cinematic world has led to the creation of numerous platforms that spotlight talented individuals, fostering a sense of unity and inspiring the next generation of storytellers.
Venice’s prestige was evident in the guest list, which included Jared Harris and his wife, Allegra. Harris’s film, House of Dynamite, was anticipated and premiered at the festival. Also in attendance were Debra Gainor of Producers Without Borders, actress Agathe Levi, and Jojo Dye, who represents both The Members Club and Producers Without Borders. Producer Vicktoria Silmara Turmina of Mindgate Motion Pictures was present, as were Jane Owen of Jane Owen Public Relations and Ann Hafström of the Creative Lifestyle Agency. Rounding out the attendees were actress Tora Kim and models Gillian Nation and Tia Goossen.
Established in 1932, the Venice International Film Festival is not only the oldest of its kind but also one of the most influential global stages for new and established voices. Together with Cannes and Berlin, it forms Europe’s “Big Three,” spotlighting cinema’s most powerful storytellers. The addition of Reel Women emphasized the significance of amplifying inclusive narratives both behind the scenes and on the screen.
The evening was presented by Campari, in collaboration with Maria Soccor Productions Inc. and Jane Owen Public Relations, and featured guests enjoying Campari cocktails, refined hors d’oeuvres, and curated drinks. “Venice has long been a platform for extraordinary storytelling, and REEL WOMEN was a chance to gather in recognition of the amazing female talent shaping the industry today,” said Soccor.
With entry reserved for invited guests, the event showcased the dedication of Campari and its collaborators to supporting innovation, inclusivity, and future storytellers. The Campari Lounge remained vibrant well past midnight, buzzing with energy, exchange, and the celebratory atmosphere that defines Venice’s most glamorous week. Conversations flowed freely, highlighting diverse perspectives, creative collaborations, and the shared commitment to shaping a more inclusive, dynamic film industry that celebrates diverse voices and experiences.
Beyond its celebratory tone, the evening also carried a strong sense of purpose. Conversations moved beyond introductions and pleasantries to meaningful exchanges about opportunities for collaboration, mentorship, and the challenges still faced by women in film. Guests shared stories about navigating funding hurdles, breaking into male-dominated production spaces, and finding allies who support inclusive voices. The night became not just a party but a platform—a reminder that visibility and networking at such prestigious festivals are essential steps toward promoting meaningful industry change.
For many in attendance, the gathering underscored the growing importance of intentional spaces like Reel Women, where dialogue and community are nurtured alongside artistry. By carving out a dedicated moment within Venice’s whirlwind of premieres and press, Soccor and her collaborators highlighted how industry events can evolve into incubators for future partnerships and advocacy. As the festival continued, the impact of Reel Women was clear—illustrating that amplifying women’s stories is not just an accessory to cinema, but central to its future.
