"I want to roar": Sigourney Weaver honored with the Lifetime Achievement Golden Lion award at the Venice Film Festival

Venice [Italy], August 29: American actress Sigourney Weaver was visibly moved as she received the Golden Lion Lifetime Achievement Award at the opening ceremony of the 81st Venice Film Festival on Wednesday night.

Weaver, renowned for her roles in films such as *Alien*, *Avatar*, and *Gorillas in the Mist*, was honored for her 45 years of work in the industry. This accolade came just before the world premiere of *Beetlejuice Beetlejuice*.

In her acceptance speech, Weaver expressed her disbelief, saying, "I'm sure I'm dreaming. I want to roar," according to Deadline.

The three-time Oscar nominee expressed her gratitude for the "jet-fuel of encouragement" from the festival, adding, "I can't believe I'm here." She humorously mentioned that the Golden Lion statue would be accompanying her on the plane, in the gondola, and even in bed with her husband.

A surprise video message from James Cameron, director of *Avatar*, congratulated Weaver, noting their strong bond of trust and respect. Cameron reflected on Weaver's first Academy Award nomination for *Aliens* and stated that she is "way overdue for that Oscar."

French actress Camille Cottin, who starred with Weaver in *Call My Agent*, praised her for tackling a range of roles from aliens to ghosts and breaking gender stereotypes. Cottin noted her surprise at Weaver’s gentle demeanor and lack of concern for the male gaze.

At a press conference on August 28, Weaver became emotional when a reporter connected her iconic role as Ripley in *Alien* to U.S. Democratic presidential candidate Kamala Harris. Holding back tears, Weaver expressed her happiness at the connection, saying it made her very pleased. She then joked about needing her vodka, as reported by Variety.