Washington, Pratt in Venice Film Festival for "The Magnificent Seven"‏

Denzel Washington, Chris Pratt and director Antoine Fuqua descended upon the 73rd Venice Film Festival Sept. 10 in which their latest film, Columbia Pictures' action-thriller "The Magnificent Seven" was presented as the closing-night movie.

The trio attended the premiere screening and participated in a photocall at the Palazzo del Casino earlier in the day.

Pratt took to Instagram to express his excitement to be in Venice. “So happy to see the fans in Italy. I love it here,” he wrote. “I’ve said it before. Venice, Italy is my favorite city in the world. The canals, the architecture and most of all the people. I love it here. Thank you for the warm welcome. Can’t wait to show you the movie!”

A few days prior, “The Magnificent Seven” was presented as the Opening Film of the Toronto International Film Festival in Canada. The distinction of book-ending two of the most prestigious festivals in the world bodes well for the action film as it prepares it's global rollout, starting September 21 in the Philippines.

"Everest" Chosen as Opening Film of 72nd Venice Film Festival‏

Universal Pictures’ epic adventure “Everest,” directed by Baltasar Kormákur, has been selected as the opening film, out of competition, of the 72nd Venice Film Festival (September 2nd – 12th 2015).

The world premiere of “Everest” will be screened on September 2 in the Sala Grande theatre (Palazzo del Cinema) at the Lido. Inspired by the incredible events surrounding an attempt to reach the summit of the world’s highest mountain, “Everest” documents the awe-inspiring journey of two different expeditions challenged beyond their limits by one of the fiercest snowstorms ever encountered by mankind. Their mettle tested by the harshest elements found on the planet, the climbers will face nearly impossible obstacles as a lifelong obsession becomes a breathtaking struggle for survival.

“Opening the Venice film festival has proven to be good luck for the awards race, with the last two openers, `Gravity' and `Birdman,' netting a slew of nominations and some major wins,” says UK newspaper The Guardian. “Baltasar Kormakur’s survival thriller `Everest' will be keen to follow,“ adds The Guardian's review, predicting the film might pick up nominations for best picture, director and supporting actor.