Michael Moore, Tom Ford in the competition at Venice Film Festival

23 films to vie for Golden Lion award

ROME — Michael Moore’s examination of the world’s economic crisis and the directorial debut of former Gucci designer Tom Ford are among 23 films vying for the Golden Lion at this year’s Venice Film Festival.

Organizers announced the lineup for the 66th festival on Thursday.

U.S. entries for the Sept. 2-12 show top the list with six, followed by four each for Italy and France.

Moore looks at the economic crisis in the United States with his documentary “Capitalism: A Love Story.” Ford’s movie, “The Single Man,” stars Colin Firth and Julianne Moore.

Also running are U.S. director Todd Solondz of “Happiness” fame, Academy Award winner Giuseppe Tornatore of Italy, and Jacques Rivette of France.