Bardem and Cruz bring star power to Venice for Florian Zeller's 'Bunker'

Venice, September 8: Javier Bardem and Penélope Cruz made a joint arrival by water taxi at the Venice Film Festival on Tuesday, ahead of the press conference for their latest film, "Bunker."

The couple, married in real life since 2010, were seen helping each other onto the jetty before posing briefly for photographers. They were joined by co-stars Paul Dano, Patrick Schwarzenegger, and director Florian Zeller, who also arrived by boat.

"Bunker," which is screening in the festival's main competition, casts Bardem and Cruz as a married couple whose long-term relationship comes under strain. The story follows an architect who agrees to design a survivalist bunker for a billionaire client.

Zeller, a French playwright and filmmaker, previously won the Academy Award for best adapted screenplay for "The Father" in 2021. His follow-up, "The Son," was nominated for the Golden Lion at Venice the following year.

The film also features Stephen Graham in its cast. The festival continues through the week with several high-profile premieres scheduled.