madonnadress460WM.jpgvenice%20film%20festivalpix460.jpg

The 68th annual Venice International Film Festival officially begins on September 8, but the stars are already hitting the red carpet in support of their films.

Madonna rocked the red carpet in a floor length Vionnet gown ... showing off her toned arms while waving to fans! The 53-year-old put on a brave face despite poor reviews of her directorial debut, W.E.

Also striking sexy poses ... Mildred Pierce stars Kate Winslet and Evan Rachel Wood.

Winslet, 35, wowed in a Stella McCartney dress paired with YSL heels. Evan, 23, looked flawless in a Alessandra Rich gown and Christian Louboutins. So chic!

The festival will run through September 10. See more of the red carpet fashion in the gallery below.