30.08.2025 Palazzo del Cinema, Venice #cinema

Tilda Swinton Steals the Show at the Premiere of “Broken English”

Palazzo del Cinema, Venice

As elegant as ever, Tilda Swinton brought the finest English charm to Venice, accompanied by her co-stars Suki Waterhouse, Sophia Di Martino and George MacKay. Directed by Jane Pollard and Ian Forsyth, “Broken English” is a documentary that tells the story of Marianne Faithfull, the British music icon who passed away last January. Presented out of competition, the film is far from a conventional biography: it is an act of narrative rebellion, an intimate and relentless exploration of a life marked by success, scandal, boundless creativity and public scrutiny, and realised with Faithfull’s full involvement.

Sixty years of career, over thirty-five albums released, and a constant ability to reinvent herself: Marianne never bothered with conventions. “Broken English” showcases her strength with both courage and delicacy, blending documentary with artistic performance, and observation with invention. The film is both unsettling and provocative, reminding us of the extraordinary freedom enjoyed by those who refuse to be pigeonholed. “Broken English” is not just the story of Marianne Faithfull: it is a rebellious swan song, a life that chose to be utterly unique.

Text: Germano D’Acquisto
Photos: Ludovica Arcero

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