Moore's previous films include "Sicko," "Fahrenheit 9/11" and "Bowling for Columbine."
The BBC said "Capitalism" is one of 23 movies vying for the coveted Golden Lion award at the festival, which is scheduled to run from Sept. 2-12.
Also set to compete at the event are Werner Herzog's remake of "The Bad Lieutenant," starring Nicolas Cage;
"A Single Man," fashion designer Tom Ford's directorial debut, starring Colin Firth, Julianne Moore and Nicholas Hoult; "The Road," an adaptation of Cormac McCarthy's novel, starring Viggo Mortensen and Charlize Theron; and "Survival of the Dead," George A. Romero's new zombie thriller.
The eagerly awaited "Toy Story 3D" is to screen out of competition at the festival, as well, the BBC said.
Copyright 2009 by United Press International.