IN CASE YOU MISSED IT: George Clooney receives honorary Golden Lion at Venice Film Festival.

The Hollywood icon was the toast of the festival's opening ceremony on Wednesday evening, receiving the honour for lifetime achievement. The prize was presented to Clooney by his longtime friend and co-star Laura Dern. "He's the best friend you could ever have and the funniest person you will ever meet," Dern said, gushing that among his many accolades, he's twice been voted People magazine's Sexiest Man Alive. Dern also read notes from Brad Pitt, Adam Sandler and Steven Soderbergh, among others. Clooney then delivered his speech, following a lengthy standing ovation.