Werner Herzog to Receive Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement at Venice Film Festival 2025

Celebrated German filmmaker Werner Herzog will be awarded the prestigious Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement during the 82nd Venice International Film Festival, set to run from August 27 to September 6, 2025. The accolade comes as a tribute to Herzog’s vast and visionary contributions to global cinema, with the decision made by the Board of Directors of La Biennale di Venezia on the recommendation of Artistic Director Alberto Barbera.

A Cinematic Visionary Who Defied Boundaries

Renowned for films like Aguirre, the Wrath of God, Fitzcarraldo, Grizzly Man, and Nosferatu the Vampyre, Herzog has continually blurred the lines between fiction and documentary, reshaping cinematic language. His work has examined themes of nature, madness, isolation, and spiritual transcendence with a uniquely poetic and often daring approach. He is considered one of the most influential figures in New German Cinema and a true master of philosophical storytelling.

Herzog Reacts: “I Am Not Done Yet”

In a statement of characteristic humility and vitality, Herzog responded to the announcement by saying: “I feel deeply honored to receive a Lifetime Achievement Honorary Golden Lion by the Venice Biennale. I have always tried to be a Good Soldier of Cinema, and this feels like a medal for my work. Thank you. However, I have not gone into retirement. I work as always.”

He went on to share updates on his current projects, revealing he just completed a new documentary titled Ghost Elephants in Africa, is filming a feature called Bucking Fastard in Ireland, is developing an animated film based on his novel The Twilight World, and will voice a character in Bong Joon Ho’s upcoming animated project.

A Tireless Explorer of Cinematic Truth

Festival Director Alberto Barbera praised Herzog’s fearless artistry and commitment to discovery: “Werner Herzog constantly crosses the planet Earth pursuing hitherto unseen images… in an unflagging search for a higher, ecstatic truth and new sensorial experiences.”

Barbera described Herzog as “a visionary humanist” and “the last heir of the great tradition of German romanticism,” highlighting his ability to investigate the depths of human experience and the sublime force of nature while challenging the boundaries of cinematic representation.

From Bavarian Mountains to Global Mastery

Born in Munich in 1942 and raised in a remote Bavarian valley, Herzog was late introduced to cinema, not making his first phone call until age 17. He financed his early projects by working night shifts in a steel factory and made his first film at 19. His journey has since spanned over 70 films, numerous operas, books, art installations, and acting roles in projects like The Mandalorian, Jack Reacher, and The Simpsons.

He is also the founder of the Rogue Film School, which offers an unconventional approach to filmmaking in contrast to traditional institutions.

A Well-Deserved Honour at Venice 2025

The Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement recognizes Herzog’s indelible mark on cinema—a mark carved through physical risk, emotional depth, and relentless creativity. With this award, Venice acknowledges not just a filmmaker but a philosophical explorer of the moving image.

The Golden Lion will be presented during the 82nd Venice International Film Festival from August 27 to September 6, 2025.

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