Short Film News (SFN) - Natalie Portman's directorial debut will open the 65th Venice Film Festival's short film section, Corto Cortissimo.

Portman's 17-minute Eve, which stars Lauren Bacall and Ben Gazzara, will screen in out of competition slot in the Corto Cortissimo section, along with three other opening-night films.

Jarred, 12-minute film from Martin Gaiss, will be the program closing film, which also screen in out of competition.

18 films will compete in Corto Cortissimo includes two films each from the U.S., the U.K., Belgium and France.

For the first time, Corto Cortissimo will also see a Vietnamese short in competition: Khi toi 20 (When I Am 20) by Phan Dang Di.

A three-person jury will select Corto Cortissimo Lion for the best short film, UIP Award for the best European short film and one special mention award.

The 65th Venice Film Festival is going to be held from August 27 to September 6, 2008.

The list of selected films for Corto Cortissimo section is available here.