With European restrictions still in effect, the American presence in Venice this year will likely be minimal thanks to the pandemic.
Venice 2020 will be a model of COVID-19 safety protocols, with thermal scanners at every entrance — anyone registering more than 99.5 degrees will be banned — as well as compulsory social distancing and dispensers everywhere with gallons of disinfectant gel for hand cleansing. Mask use will be required at all times, including during screenings and in outdoor areas.
But if you’re a U.S. citizen, just getting to Venice is the problem. In July, for the first time since the coronavirus lockdown, the European Union reopened its borders to "nonessential" travelers from several countries. They include people from Canada, Japan, South Korea, China and Australia. The U.S. — which is still recording tens of thousands of new COVID-19 cases a day — is not on the list. Travel restrictions mean the average American sales agent, marketing executive or film critic will be banned from attending.
"The American presence in Venice will be minimal," admits Venice Film Festival director Alberto Barbera. But there are loopholes. U.S. citizens can fly to Venice from another European country, provided they have spent at least 14 days in the EU. For those flying direct from L.A. or New York, the Italian government has made an exception for "urgent business travel." Thanks to the efforts of the Venice fest, visiting talent and accredited execs qualify.
U.S. travelers have to email proof of a negative COVID-19 test, taken no more than 72 hours before they land in Venice, to the festival. Venice will arrange for a second, free test within 24 hours of arrival. If it’s also negative, you’re good to go. If you stay longer than five days, the festival will do a third test, also free of charge.
Still, even getting a flight to Italy may prove a challenge. Most U.S. and European airlines have canceled or severely cut back their U.S.-Italy routes. But for many Americans, the biggest hassle could be getting a U.S. lab that can do the first, pre-flight test and get results back quickly. Testing facilities vary, with some taking longer than 72 hours to process results.
"I got lucky and found a place in L.A. which delivers results within 24 hours for $150," notes PR exec Laurent Boye, who will be making the trip to the Lido this year. "By skipping the quarantine, Venice and the Italian government’s testing program is redefining travel. If duplicated, this could allow countries to welcome [U.S.] travelers again, in an orderly manner."
Article by: Scott Roxborough for the Hollywood Reporter.
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