Palme d’Or Competition heats up

The 78th Cannes Film Festival, just weeks away from it’s grand opening, has finalized its programme, adding notable titles to its already extraordinary roster. The prestigious Palme d’Or competition now boasts 21 feature films, with the inclusion of a highly anticipated thriller starring Jennifer Lawrence and Robert Pattinson, Die, My Love, directed by Ramsay, known for We Need to Talk About Kevin.This addition solidifies the festival’s commitment to showcasing diverse and compelling narratives.

Ramsay’s inclusion marks the seventh female director vying for the Palme d’Or this year, matching the festival’s 2023 record. While parity remains a goal,this achievement underscores Cannes’ ongoing efforts to promote female voices in cinema. The festival also selected Mother and Child from iranian director saeed Roustaee. Roustaee faced a six-month prison sentance in his home country in 2023 for screening his previous film, Leïla and her brothers, at Cannes, highlighting the festival’s role as a platform for filmmakers facing censorship.

Kristen Stewart Steps Behind the Camera

The Un Certain Regard section, dedicated to discovering new talent and innovative filmmaking, will feature the directorial debut of Kristen Stewart. The Chronology of Water, a biographical drama based on the memoir of American writer Lidia Yuknavitch, promises to be a highlight. Stewart, known for her evolution from the Twilight saga to a respected figure in self-reliant cinema, directs a story of a young woman who grows in an habitat ravaged by violence and alcohol before finding refuge in literature, according to the film’s producers.

This directorial debut arrives at a time when female directors are gaining more recognition.In 2024, women directed 17% of the top grossing films, a significant increase from previous years, signaling a shift in the industry.

Midnight Screenings and Ethan Coen’s solo Venture

Adding to the excitement, the festival will host a midnight screening of Ethan Coen’s second film directed without his brother Joel. The film stars Margaret Qualley, who captivated audiences in 2024 with her performance in The Substance. Midnight screenings at Cannes are known for showcasing genre-bending and provocative films, making Coen’s latest project a must-see for cinephiles.

A Celebration of Pierre Richard‘s Legacy

Cannes will honor the legendary French actor and director Pierre Richard, 90, with a special tribute. The festival will screen his latest film, The man who saw the bear who saw the man, his first directorial effort in nearly three decades, set for theatrical release in late September. This tribute celebrates Richard’s enduring contribution to comedy and French cinema.

Stars, Performances, and Anticipation

The 78th Cannes Film Festival is scheduled to commence on May 13th, culminating in the prestigious Palme d’Or ceremony on May 24th. French singer Mylène Farmer will provide an exceptional service during the opening gala, according to Gross, the festival’s official partner.

The festival anticipates a constellation of stars, including Scarlett Johansson, presenting her directorial debut, Denzel Washington, attending for a Spike Lee film, and Robert De niro, receiving a tribute and an honorary Palme d’Or. Tom Cruise is also expected to present the latest installment in the Mission: Impractical saga, though it will be screened out of competition.

The composition of the jury,presided over by French actress Juliette Binoche,is expected to be announced soon,adding another layer of anticipation to this year’s Cannes Film Festival.