Oscar-winning director and actor Roberto Benigni will receive the Golden Lion for Lifetime Achievement of the 78th Venice International Film Festival, organizers announced Thursday.
In a statement, Benigni stated: "My heart is full of joy and gratitude. It is an immense honor to receive such an important recognition of my work from the Venice International Film Festival,".
The actor has been a superstar of Italian cinema for decades and starred recently in Matteo Garrone's live-action "Pinocchio" as Geppetto, a role that won him a David di Donatello Award, Italy's Oscar equivalent, as best supporting actor.
He achieved international success for his 1997 War/Drama movie "Life Is Beautiful", which earned him Oscars for best actor and best international film.
Venice Film Festival runs from September 1-11.
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