Stefano Knuchel’s film Il desiderio di essere inutile - Hugo a Venezia ("A Longing to Be of No Use - Hugo in Venice") will have its premiere at the Venice Film Festival on September 12. Unlike most films at the festival, which compete for awards, this one will screen out of competition. The special screening will be presented jointly by La Biennale di Venezia, the International Critics' Week, and the Giornate degli Autori—three important entities within the festival that support and showcase emerging and established filmmakers. The Venice Film Festival, one of the most prestigious film events in the world, typically features a mix of competitive and non-competitive films. Competitive entries are vying for top awards such as the Golden Lion, while out-of-competition films are often chosen for their artistic value or special significance. These films are still shown at the festival but are not eligible for prizes. La Biennale di Venezia, which organizes the festival, is a cultural institution that also hosts other arts events, including visual arts and music. The International Critics' Week and the Giornate degli Autori are two of its affiliated sections. The Critics' Week focuses on films selected by a panel of international film critics, while Giornate degli Autori highlights works by emerging directors. Knuchel’s film, which explores themes of purpose and identity through the lens of Venice and the figure of Hugo, is being highlighted as a special contribution to the festival. Its premiere outside the competition underscores its artistic and thematic significance, offering audiences a unique cinematic experience.