The red carpet is rolled out for Venice 2011

The flash bulbs are at the ready and the red carpet has been laid for one of the film worlds most important festivals. which gets underway this Wednesday. The Venice film Festival is 68 years old this year making it the longest running cinema gathering of its kind.

But apart from it’s, glamour and of course it’s setting, what makes Venice important?

Marco Mueller is Artistic Director of the Venice Festival, speaking to the BBC he says this festival offers the films screened a major launch pad.

So what films can we expect to see and what actors and actresses will be gracing the event?

Well George Clooney will be descending on the Lido as both Director and actor to kick off the festival in the political drama “The Ides of March”. He will also be vying for the coveted Golden Lion award, the top prize at the event.

Another of the stars of this film Paul Giamatti spoke about the Venice experience.

Other films in competition include Tinker, Tailer, Soldier Spy starring Oscar winner Colin Firth and a new take on Emily Bronte’s classic novel, “Wuthering Heights”.

Matthew McConaughey, Matt Damon, and Keira Knightley are also expected to put in an appearance on the red carpet.

During this feast of movies their will also be a chance to catch a number of foreign works such as acclaimed Russian director Alexander Sokurov’s film"Faust" and the Egyptian documentary "Tahrir 2011" which explores the revolution and overthrow of the old regime.

In all 66 films will have their world premieres at Venice over the 11 day event 23 of which will compete for the Golden Lion prize. Listen to Lydia O'Kane's report