The first part of the HBO TV series MILDRED PIERCE (2011) screened in the Sala Grande today in Venice during the 68th Venice Film Festival, out of competition. Based on the novel of the same name by writer James M. Cain, director Todd Haynes directs its second adaptation after the 1945 version which starred Joan Crawford. Todd Haynes' adaptation has been nominated for several Emmy Awards (still pending), despite the bland reception from critics that the 1945 film noir version was better and claims that the TV series drags on. But, I say, if Kate's in it, it must be good.

Following MILDRED PIERCE is the world premier of the 'In Competition' film A DANGEROUS METHOD, by director David Cronenberg.

written by Vanessa McMahon