42 of the greatest gowns to ever grace the Venice Film Festival red carpet

The Italians do style very well, and this event's red carpet proves it. From Lady Gaga in Valentino in 2018 to Scarlett Johansson in Alberta Ferretti in 2004, here are 42 of the best gowns ever seen on the Venice Film Festival red carpet.

The glitzy festival kicked off again Wednesday, and runs until September 7. There are 21 films vying for the prestigious Golden Lion award this year. They include La Verite (The Truth), by Japanese director Hirokazu Kore-eda (the opening night film), No.7 Cherry Lane by Hong Kong director Yonfan and The Perfect Candidate by Saudi Arabian director Haifaa al-Mansour.

This year, rows about the inclusion of filmmakers Roman Polanski and Nate Parker threaten to take some of the sheen off a selection featuring a dazzling array of major stars including Brad Pitt, Johnny Depp, Kristen Stewart, Meryl Streep and Scarlett Johansson at the festival.

The festival is considered a true launchpad for the Oscars.