Why Al Pacino's Absence at Venice Film Festival Didn't Dampen the Spirit of 'Father Joe'

Al Pacino's absence from the Venice Film Festival for the premiere of 'Father Joe' was felt through a heartfelt video message he sent to the cast and crew. In the message, he expressed his regret for missing the event and acknowledged his colleagues, including Kiefer Sutherland and Luc Besson. The film, set in 1990s Manhattan's Little Italy, follows a priest who confronts a powerful mob boss. With Sutherland in the lead role and Pacino as the crime lord, the film explores themes of faith and redemption. Directed by Barthelemy Grossmann, this project marks a significant collaboration for Sutherland and Besson.

By Narendra Chaudhary Sep 6, 2026, 14:39 IST

Al Pacino's Heartfelt Message from Afar

Academy Award-winning actor Al Pacino was notably missing from the Venice Film Festival, where his latest film, Father Joe, premiered. Although he couldn't attend in person, Pacino made sure to connect with the cast and crew by sending a heartfelt video message, conveying his best wishes to everyone involved.

In his video, Pacino expressed his disappointment at not being able to join the festivities, sharing his affection for Venice. According to reports, he remarked, "I wish I was there with all of you in Venice, which is great and lovely. I've had films there. I've been there. I've experienced it." He also took a moment to recognize his colleagues, particularly writer-producer Luc Besson and co-star Kiefer Sutherland, wishing them a successful premiere.

Exploring the Storyline of Father Joe

Details on the Production of Father Joe

Father Joe is an action-thriller set in the vibrant backdrop of 1990s Manhattan's Little Italy. The plot revolves around a priest who finds himself at odds with a powerful mob boss. Kiefer Sutherland stars as Father Joe, a distinctive man of faith who embarks on a covert mission against local crime syndicates, effectively transforming the city's underworld into his congregation. Al Pacino takes on the role of the formidable crime lord whose empire is threatened by the priest's endeavors. The cast also features Ever Anderson, portraying a young woman navigating the perilous environment under Father Joe's guidance.

This film marks the directorial debut of Barthelemy Grossmann, with the screenplay crafted by Luc Besson. Grossmann describes the project as a contemporary fable that delves into themes of redemption, faith, and the intricacies of human nature. For Sutherland, this project was a long-awaited chance to work with Besson. Reflecting on the experience, he shared, "I was a huge, huge fan. Luc had made films I wish I had been in. I thought, 'That is the kind of movie I should be making.' But he never hired me. Very fortunately, he thought of me for this idea."