Lav Diaz, the acclaimed Filipino filmmaker and winner of the Golden Lion at the Venice Film Festival for his film The Woman Who Left, is returning to the Lido this week with his latest project, Let Us Through, Dear Ancestors (Makikiraan Po), which has been selected for the Venice Open section. Diaz is known for his slow, meditative storytelling and deeply philosophical themes, often exploring issues of justice, memory, and the human condition. His return to Venice marks a significant moment for both the festival and fans of his work. Let Us Through, Dear Ancestors is part of a broader body of work that reflects Diaz’s unique cinematic style. The film, which is set in the Philippines, continues his exploration of personal and historical trauma, often through the lens of ordinary people facing extraordinary challenges. The title itself suggests a dialogue with the past, hinting at the film’s likely focus on ancestral legacies and the weight of history on present lives. In addition to Let Us Through, Dear Ancestors, Diaz is currently in post-production on An Entry Into the Sadness of a Portuguese Woman, a new project that expands his narrative scope beyond the Philippines. This film was presented at the Venice Gap-Financing Market, an event designed to support filmmakers in securing funding for their projects. Diaz’s involvement in this market highlights his growing international influence and the continued interest in his work from both European and global cinema circles. Diaz’s presence at Venice this year underscores the festival’s commitment to showcasing diverse voices and cinematic traditions. His films, often long in duration and rich in symbolism, challenge conventional storytelling and have earned him a reputation as one of Asia’s most important directors. As he returns to the Lido, audiences and critics alike are eagerly anticipating what this new work might reveal about his evolving vision.