Nicole Kidman

Nicole Kidman will open Rome's first international film festival with her portrayal of U.S. photographer Diane Arbus, organizers said on Friday.

Kidman plays Arbus in Steven Shainberg's "Fur," which premieres in Rome on October 13.

"I love Italy and I feel great affinity with it," Kidman said in a statement issued by organizers of the Rome festival. "I am especially proud to be christening this important event."

Kidman's presence in the capital will add to a debate in Italy over the rivalry between the Rome event and Venice's venerable film festival, established in 1932.

Just two years ago Kidman was the headline star at the Venice festival.

Film industry experts say the two festivals will compete over stars and premieres, and Rome could cast a shadow over Venice's festival, which has been dogged by organizational and financial problems.

After her suicide in 1971 Arbus became the first American photographer to be exhibited by the Venice Biennale, the art foundation that oversees the Venice festival, the world's oldest film competition.

Rome organizers said other premieres will include "The Namesake" by Indian director Mira Nair and "N" -- a film about Napoleon by Italy's Paolo Virzi. Additionally, Sean Connery will receive an award for lifetime achievement.