Sculptures of lions are displayed outside the Casino on the eve of the opening of the 68th Venice International Film Festival on August 30, 2011. Twenty-two films -- all world premieres -- will compete for the prestigious Golden Lion award, with a host of stars expected on the red carpet, from the blue-eyed Clooney to US singer Madonna and "The Godfather" star Al Pacino. AFP PHOTO / ALBERTO PIZZOLI