The prestigious Cannes film festival or Festival de Cannes, is one of the premier European film festivals and a mainstay in the international film world. Held annually in the city of Cannes, France, the festival plays home to some of our most celebrated filmmakers and emerging young talent. Winners of its top prize, the Palme D’or, often become Oscar winners and bona fide classics. Past winners include Anora (2024), Parasite (2019), Pulp Fiction (1994) and Taxi Driver (1976).
Here are some of the most notable films from this years festival:
Wes Anderson’s new feature held its world premiere at Cannes this year, marking his fourth appearance on the Croisette. Oligarch “Zsa-Zsa” Korda and his daughter, Liesl, embark on a series of outlandish adventures whilst trying to avoid assassination. Featuring the kind of ensemble cast and cameos that have become a trademark of Anderson’s films, Michael Cera in particular has been noted as a dream pairing for the director with critics praising his performance.
Returning to Cannes for the first time since 2003, Iranian writer/director Jafar Panahi wins the Palme D’or for a revenge thriller inspired by his imprisonment. What begins as a minor accident sets in motion a series of escalating consequences exploring the ethics of revenge, and if it’s really justifiable. After last year’s Anora, this becomes the sixth year in a row that North American distributor Neon has won the Palme D’or with Mubi picking up distribution for UK-Ireland
Following his Academy Award and BAFTA nominated The Worst Person in the World (2022), Joachim Trier reunites with actress Renate Reinsve for an emotional tale about an estranged father trying to reconnect with his daughters. Also starring Elle Fanning and Stellan Skarsgård, Sentimental Value took home the Grand Prix award and received a 19 minute standing ovation - the third longest in Cannes’ 78 year history.
Writer/director Ari Aster, best known for his hit horror films Hereditary (2018) and Midsommar (2019), turns the clock back to May 2020 and the pandemic that gripped the world. In this contemporary western, the tensions between a small-town sheriff and mayor boil over as they standoff on opposing sides of the political spectrum. Featuring an all-star cast that includes Joaquin Phoenix, Pedro Pascal, Emma Stone and Austin Butler. Distributed by Indie powerhouse A24 and Universal Pictures, Eddington’s UK release date is set for August 22nd.
Legendary actor and two-time Academy Award winner Denzel Washington made his first appearance at Cannes this year for his fifth, and possibly last collaboration with renowned director Spike Lee. The film is a contemporary remake of Akira Kurosawa’s High and Low (1963), set in Spike’s beloved New York City that even includes a cameo from A$AP Rocky. Playing out of competition, Highest 2 Lowest received glowing reviews from critics with an honorary Palme D’or going to Washington for his extensive acting career.
Scottish director Lynne Ramsey stunned critics with her latest film, many of them hailing Jennifer Lawrence’s performance as her best yet - quite a feat for an actress that’s already won one Academy Award and been nominated for three more. Also starring Robert Pattinson, Die My Love is a vulnerable portrait of a postnatal mother dealing with a mental health crisis. After its premiere on the Croisette, a bidding war for the distribution rights ensued with Mubi, fresh off the success of The Substance coming out on top.
Actor Harris Dickenson, best known for his roles in The Iron Claw (2023) and Babygirl (2024), makes his writing and directorial debut with Urchin, a heartfelt story about homelessness and addiction. Frank Dillane took home the best actor award in the Un Certain Regard section for his leading role as Michael, with Dickenson also starring in a small supporting role. Urchin received rave reviews and was praised for its compassionate and assured vision.
Director Kelly Reichardt returned to Cannes this year with another genre deconstruction, this time taking on the heist film. Starring Josh O’Connor, who recently rose to fame with Challengers (2024) and TV series The Crown, The Mastermind is a jazz laden 1970s throwback that follows an unemployed carpenter whose life spirals out of control after an art heist goes wrong. Critics hailed O’Connor’s performance as his best to date with the film receiving unanimous praise.
Keep an eye out on our website for more details on the release of these films, as well as others bearing the festival’s iconic Palm logo on their posters.
Written by Dom Smith, Team Member at The Light Walsall.
6 May 2025