Keira Knightley's forthcoming film Atonement has been chosen to open this year's Venice Film Festival.

The adaptation of Ian McEwan's novel, also starring Vanessa Redgrave and James McAvoy, will be a contender for the event's top prize, the Golden Lion.

Atonement is the second release from UK director Joe Wright, 35, who worked with Knightley on Pride & Prejudice.

The world premiere of the film, a tale of love and war, will be attended by Knightley, 22, in Venice on 29 August.

Source: Press Release