Casey Affleck's directorial project 'Company,' co-written with Ron Hansen, premiered at the Venice Film Festival to a four to four-and-a-half minute standing ovation at Sala Grande. The gothic horror-drama signalled strong audience reception and marked Affleck's return to the prestigious festival.

The film starred Nick Nolte and featured cast members including Indiana Affleck and Emily, with both the director and lead actor visibly moved by the enthusiastic response. Ben Affleck, who produced through his company Artist Equity, attended the screening and applauded warmly, though Affleck and the cast departed whilst the ovation was still underway.