François Ozon's adaptation of Albert Camus' novel "The Stranger" is set for its world premiere at the 82nd Venice International Film Festival on September 2, 2025. The film, starring Benjamin Voisin as Meursault, is part of the festival's competition lineup, which also includes new works from directors Yorgos Lanthimos and Guillermo del Toro.
The Venice Film Festival, a key event for films seeking awards season recognition, will run from August 27 to September 6, 2025. "The Stranger" is produced by Ozon's FOZ company in collaboration with Gaumont, France 2 Cinéma, Macassar Productions, and Scope Pictures. Gaumont is also handling French distribution and international sales.
Benjamin Voisin, who previously worked with Ozon on "Summer of '85," takes on the central role of Meursault, a character known for his detached demeanor and indifference to societal norms. The cast also features Rebecca Marder, known for her roles in Ozon's "The Crime Is Mine" and "A Radiant Girl," and veteran actor Denis Lavant, who has collaborated with directors such as Leos Carax.
Shot in black and white, the film aims to capture the starkness of Camus's narrative. Camus's 1942 novel, "The Stranger," is a significant work of existentialist literature, exploring themes of absurdity and societal alienation. It has been translated into 75 languages and remains widely read globally.
The film's premiere at Venice, a festival renowned for showcasing impactful cinema, suggests it could be a strong contender for critical acclaim and awards. "The Stranger" is scheduled for a French theatrical release on October 29, 2025. This adaptation marks Ozon's return to the Venice competition, following his 2016 entry, "Frantz."