78 Films That Could Make Waves at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival

The tiring 2025 Oscars race has come to an end – which signals the beginning of a new phase: The emergence of fresh awards campaigns! Given the circumstances, it’s crucial we turn our attention towards Europe’s most prestigious film festivals, especially Cannes, as potential candidates for the upcoming season.

As a film enthusiast, I can’t help but notice the significant impact the Cannes Film Festival has on the Oscars. Last year, Sean Baker’s Palme d’Or winner, “Anora,” truly shone at this year’s ceremony. Notably, “Emilia Pérez,” which received Cannes’ jury prize and best actress honor, was the Academy’s most-nominated film of the year. The breakthrough animated winner, “Flow,” also made its debut in Cannes’ Un Certain Regard section. It’s challenging to envision the remarkable indie sensation from Latvia would have reached such heights without the prestigious platform provided by the French festival.

Over the past decade, it’s become apparent that the Academy has leaned towards appreciating more intellectually sophisticated films as its international membership has grown significantly. By mid-2024, around a quarter of its members were from outside the U.S., compared to less than 8% only ten years prior. These new members are renowned filmmakers and actors hailing from various countries who value the Cannes committee’s artistic approach as the epitome of cinematic greatness. This shift is exciting for movie enthusiasts since it could mean increased recognition — and potentially more accessibility — for outstanding international films.

Let’s take a broad tour around the world to identify promising filmmakers and films expected to make it to the prestigious 2025 Cannes Film Festival lineup, with their first appearance on the iconic red carpet of the Palais des Festivals.

The 78th Cannes Film Festival is set to take place from May 13th to the 24th, 2025. Renowned French actress Juliette Binoche has been appointed as the head of this year’s jury, taking over from Greta Gerwig who held the position last year. The festival’s complete lineup will be revealed at a press conference in Paris around mid-April by the festival director, Thierry Frémaux.

Lily Ford contributed to this report.

‘After the Hunt’ Directed by Luca Guadagnino

Director Luca Guadagnino, who’s known for his frequent appearances at the Venice Film Festival, seems less likely to attend Cannes this year. This is because Amazon MGM has scheduled a domestic release on October 10th, which typically means “After the Hunt” will follow the Venice/Telluride/Toronto festival pattern. However, it’s worth noting that Cannes has occasionally taken films from its competitor, the Venice Film Festival. Moreover, there’s already a significant buzz around this psychological thriller due to its potential awards recognition. In the movie, Julia Roberts plays a college professor who finds herself in an ethical quandary when one of her students (Ayo Edebiri) accuses a colleague (Andrew Garfield), and a hidden secret of her own could soon be exposed.

‘Alpha’ Directed by Julia Ducournau

The upcoming competition at Cannes will feature Julia Ducournau’s follow-up to her Palme d’Or winning film, “Titane” from 2021. Last year, Neon acquired the North American rights for the film titled “Alpha” in Cannes. If the movie is complete, a premiere at Cannes is highly likely. The stars of this production are Golshifteh Farahani, known for “Paterson,” and Tahar Rahim, from “The Mauritanian.” The production companies, FilmNation and Charades, have stated that “Alpha” is Julia Ducournau’s most personal film yet. However, the storyline remains mysterious, with whispers that it takes place in the 1980s, focusing on an 11-year-old girl who is ostracized by her peers due to rumors she has contracted a new illness.

‘Amrum’ Directed by Fatih Akin

Fatih Akin’s international success truly took off when his movie, “Head-On,” won the Golden Bear at Berlin in 2004. However, Cannes seems to bring good fortune to this German-Turkish filmmaker; he was awarded best screenplay in 2007 for “The Edge of Heaven” and played a crucial role in Diane Kruger’s Best Actress win for “In the Fade” in 2017. Now, “Amrum,” which reunites Akin with Kruger, is a period drama set on Amrum Island during the final days of World War II on the German North Sea coast. Warner Bros. Germany has scheduled the film for an autumn release, hinting that it may instead premiere at Venice or Toronto.

‘An Affair’ Directed by Arnaud Desplechin

Betting on the new Arnaud Desplechin film to debut at Cannes is about as secure as wagers go. In fact, ten of his films have been unveiled there, with seven being in competition – the last being “Brother and Sister” in 2022. His “Filmlovers!” even got a special screening last year, and he’s shown movies at Directors’ Fortnight (“My Golden Days” in 2015) and Un Certain Regard (“En jouant ‘Dans la compagnie des hommes’” in 2003). His latest work is a romantic drama featuring François Civil as a gifted French pianist, who upon returning to Lyon from Asia, finds himself entangled in a love story that seems impossible. Nadia Tereszkiewicz, Charlotte Rampling, and Hippolyte Girardot are also part of the cast.

‘Ann Lee’ Directed by Mona Fastvold

Mona Fastvold, a renowned Norwegian filmmaker, and her husband Brady Corbet have consistently premiered their directorial works at the Venice Film Festival over the last decade. However, if they decide to shake things up, their upcoming dramatic historical musical could be unveiled at Cannes instead. Titled after Ann Lee, the founder of the Shaker movement, the film stars Amanda Seyfried. In this religious community, Lee was considered a female version of Christ, and worshippers expressed their devotion through music and dance, which form the basis of the movie’s musical elements. Daniel Blumberg, who recently won an Oscar for his score on Corbet’s “The Brutalist”, has composed original songs for this project. Fastvold and Corbet are said to have spent years studying Lee’s life and collaborating on the script. The film was shot in Hungary immediately following the production of “The Brutalist”.

‘The Avenging Silence’ Directed by Nicolas Winding Refn

As a fervent admirer, I’m thrilled if the whispers are correct that Nicolas Winding Refn, the creative maverick known for his gripping films like “The Neon Demon” (2016), might be bringing his next masterpiece to Cannes. Shortly after the premier of “The Neon Demon” on the Croisette, he intrigued us with a project described as his unique spin on the spy thriller, combining elements of Ian Fleming, William Burroughs, and his own distinctive style into what he calls “The Avenging Silence“.

After a lengthy development phase, which included forays into television such as Netflix’s “Copenhagen Cowboy”, Amazon’s “Too Old to Die Young”, and the BBC-produced children’s adventure tale “The Famous Five”, Refn reportedly filmed “The Avenging Silence” under wraps in Korea last year. This suggests that we might get a glimpse of it at Cannes in May!

‘A Big Bold Beautiful Journey’ Directed by Kogonada

Sony has scheduled the release of South Korean-American filmmaker Kogonada’s latest feature in the U.S. on May 9, which is just before Cannes begins, making it unlikely for a spot in the festival’s competition. However, there might be a non-competitive gala screening due to the director’s connection with the festival (his previous film, After Yang, was shown in Un Certain Regard in 2021) and the film’s star-studded cast headed by Margot Robbie and Colin Farrell. At present, only a brief overview of the story has been disclosed: “An inventive narrative about two strangers embarking on an extraordinary emotional journey that links them together.

‘Bugonia’ Directed by Yorgos Lanthimos

Another potential, though unexpected, candidate for Cannes next year could be a science fiction comedy directed by Yorgos Lanthimos, who has been extremely prolific. The film is scheduled to be released in November through Focus Features, which may indicate a premiere at a fall festival, possibly Venice, where Lanthimos’ previous work “Poor Things” won the Golden Lion in 2023. However, Cannes, where Lanthimos was welcomed last year with “Kinds of Kindness“, might lure him back again. This film is an English-language adaptation of the South Korean movie “Save the Green Planet!” by Jang Joon-hwan, which debuted at Cannes in 2003.

‘Calle Malaga’ Directed by Maryam Touzani

Maryam Touzani, an emerging filmmaker from Morocco, has made a name for herself by securing spots in Cannes’ Un Certain Regard section with her films “Adam” (2019) and “The Blue Caftan” (2022), the latter winning the international critics’ FIPRESCI award. Her forthcoming Spanish-language film seems poised for a spot on the Croisette, provided it’s completed on schedule. The story revolves around Maria Angeles, a woman in her seventies who is part of the Spanish community in Tangier. She resists her daughter’s efforts to sell their home and uproot her life. Instead, she embarks on a journey to reclaim her home and the furniture that were sold, which leads her to rekindle old romantic feelings and uncover a forgotten sensuality.

‘The Chronology of Water’ Directed by Kristen Stewart

Kristen Stewart’s first directorial venture, titled “The Chronology of Water“, which she also co-authored, seems poised to be a standout in the Un Certain Regard category. This highly acclaimed actress, who has graced the Cannes Film Festival red carpet for over a decade, has spent more than five years bringing this project to life, describing it as a deeply personal labor of love. The film is based on Lidia Yuknavitch’s bestselling 2011 memoir, with Imogen Poots portraying the author at different stages in her life. The story unfolds, meandering through the waters of Lidia’s memories. “The Chronology of Water” delves deeply into themes of sexuality, creativity, and offers an unblinking gaze at the gritty details of female embodiment, while sensitively depicting the emotional lexicon of youth.” The diverse supporting cast includes Thora Birch, Earl Cave, Michael Epp, Susannah Flood, Kim Gordon, and Jim Belushi.

‘Couture’ Directed by Alice Winocour

If Alice Winocour manages to complete her catwalk drama by Cannes, it’s nearly certain that the movie will secure an official spot at the French festival, possibly even within a competition category. Winocour is no stranger to the Cannes Film Festival, as three out of her four feature films have been shown there, and she also contributed to Deniz Gamze Ergüven’s 2015 Directors’ Fortnight hit, Mustang. Her upcoming project represents a significant increase in budget and scope, with Angelina Jolie portraying an American film director embarking on a life-threatening voyage, where she encounters challenges, self-discovery, and meets a South Sudanese model named Ada (played by Anyier Anei in her first feature film role) and French makeup artist Angèle (portrayed by Ella Rumpf), amidst the chaos of Paris Fashion Week.

‘De Gaulle Partie 1: La France Libre’ Directed by Antonin Baudry

Previously, Pathé debuted the initial installment of Alexandre de La Patellière and Matthieu Delaporte’s two-part historical drama “The Count of Monte-Cristo” in a prime, non-competitive slot at Cannes last year. This move led to impressive box office results in France and Europe. Now, they plan to employ a similar strategy with Antonin Baudry’s two-part biopic on Charles de Gaulle. The first part portrays Simon Abkarian as de Gaulle, leading the French resistance against Nazi Germany during World War II, ultimately assuming the presidency post-liberation.

‘Die, My Love’ Directed by Lynne Ramsay

As a devoted admirer, I must say that Lynne Ramsay doesn’t churn out movies frequently, but when she does complete one, it graces the screens at Cannes. Her initial feature debut, “Ratcatcher” (1999), found a home in Un Certain Regard; her subsequent work, “Morvern Callar” (2002), premiered in Directors’ Fortnight. The critically acclaimed films, “We Need to Talk About Kevin” (2011) and “You Were Never Really Here” (2017), were both in competition. Ramsay’s connection with Cannes goes even deeper, as her shorts, “Small Deaths” (1996) and “Gasman” (1998), also made their debut on the Croisette. In her latest masterpiece, Robert Pattinson, Jennifer Lawrence, and LaKeith Stanfield star in a psychological thriller. This adaptation from a novel by Argentine author Ariana Harwicz tells the story of a woman in rural France who is pushed to the edge of madness by the challenges of marriage and motherhood.

‘The Disappearance of Joseph Mengele’ Directed by Kirill Serebrennikov

Kirill Serebrennikov’s recent four films – “Limonov”, “Tchaikovsky’s Wife”, “Petrov’s Flu” and “Leto” – all debuted at the Cannes Film Festival, and he is poised to become a member of the exclusive five-time club with this upcoming feature. This historical drama, based on the nonfiction novel of the same name by Olivier Guez, features August Diehl from “Inglourious Basterds” and “A Hidden Life” in the role of the notorious Nazi doctor Josef Mengele. After escaping Germany post-World War II and evading capture, Mengele is said to have sought refuge in South America. Serebrennikov completed filming the project in Uruguay towards the end of last year, indicating that he might be ready with a finished version for the Cannes Film Festival in May.

‘The Doctor Says I’ll Be Alright, But I’m Feelin’ Blue’ Directed by Mascha Schilinski

Initially garnering notice with her 2017 directorial debut, “Dark Blue Girl”, which showcased a remarkable lead performance by Helena Zengel, who gained recognition as the rising talent in Nora Fingscheidt’s “System Crasher” (2019), Mascha Schilinski is now preparing for the premiere of her subsequent work. This film, rumored to debut at Cannes, possibly under Un Certain Regard category, is a daring drama that explores the lives of four girls from various generations, connected through shared memories spanning a century.

‘Dracula: A Love Tale’ Directed by Luc Besson

As a dedicated admirer of Luc Besson’s work, I’ve seen the rollercoaster ride his films have had at Cannes. The city was initially warm to him when “The Big Blue” premiered outside competition in 1988, and it became a global hit. However, the critics were less forgiving when his sci-fi epic, “The Fifth Element,” opened Cannes in 1997. Besson’s action-pop style often clashes with the auteur tradition of Cannes, which is why he opted for Venice for his 2023 comeback film, “DogMan.” But now, with his unique take on Bram Stoker’s gothic classic, featuring Caleb Landry Jones (from “DogMan”), alongside Christoph Waltz and Matilda De Angelis, there’s a chance that Cannes might welcome him back with open arms. SND has scheduled the release of “Dracula” in France for July 30th, hinting at an out-of-competition debut at Cannes.

‘Eddington’ Directed by Ari Aster

Although Ari Aster has not yet showcased a film at Cannes’ main competition due to his art-house success, there’s a strong possibility that his upcoming project, “Eddington,” will be the one. This highly anticipated movie features an impressive cast consisting of Joaquin Phoenix, Pedro Pascal, Emma Stone, and Austin Butler. The story is described as a darkly humorous Western thriller where a sheriff (Phoenix) confronts his mayor (Pascal) in a power struggle during a pandemic era, set in a small town in New Mexico. With A24 and Aster’s Square Peg banner collaborating once more, the film was shot on location in New Mexico and is slated for release in U.S. theaters this coming summer. Known for his distinctive style and thought-provoking themes from films like “Hereditary,” “Midsommar,” and “Beau Is Afraid,” audiences can expect a visually stunning and intensely thematic experience with this new production.

‘Eleanor the Great’ Directed by Scarlett Johansson

In a departure from her acting career, Scarlett Johansson’s first directorial effort centers around Eleanor Morgenstein, a 90-year-old woman portrayed by the charming June Squibb, who is trying to restart her life following the passing of her cherished friend. After many years in Florida, she moves back to New York City and grapples with feelings of loneliness and the challenges of forging new relationships at her age. However, Eleanor eventually forms an unconventional friendship with a 19-year-old college student living in the city. This unexpected bond brings new life to both characters. The buzz surrounding the project has been positive, as Johansson has previously premiered several films at Cannes as an actress.

‘F1’ Directed by Joseph Kosinski

Brad Pitt and his co-star Damson Idris filmed their exhilarating high-speed car stunts and off-track conversations alongside real-life sports athletes for Joseph Kosinski’s upcoming blockbuster. The director of “Top Gun: Maverick” will undoubtedly cherish his time in the Riviera, recalling the spectacular French Air Force fly-by from 2022. Kerry Condon, Tobias Menzies, Kim Bodnia, and Javier Bardem are also part of this highly anticipated movie. Although it’s not guaranteed for the Croisette, a lively premiere at the festival would be fitting considering the renowned Monaco race is just a short distance away along the coast.

‘Father, Mother, Sister, Brother’ Directed by Jim Jarmusch

Renowned indie filmmaker Jim Jarmusch, a regular at Cannes Film Festival, brings forth a three-part anthology film titled “Triptych,” which delves into the themes of family and multi-generational connections across tales set in diverse countries. The movie boasts an impressive cast that includes Cate Blanchett, Adam Driver, Vicky Krieps, Tom Waits, Charlotte Rampling, and Mayim Bialik. According to its synopsis, “Triptych” is a collection of character studies – quiet, observational, and non-judgmental, with elements of comedy infused within threads of melancholy. Jarmusch’s iconic silver hairstyle graces the Cannes red carpet regularly. He has won the Caméra d’Or for “Stranger Than Paradise” in 1984 and the Grand Prix for “Broken Flowers” in 2005, most recently competing at Cannes with the eccentric zombie film “The Dead Don’t Die” in 2019.

‘Fuori’ Directed by Mario Martone

Mario Martone, one of Italy’s filmmakers who prioritizes Venice, has showcased seven competitive features at the Lido. However, he has also visited Cannes on three occasions. He has been in competition twice (with “Nostalgia” in 2022 and “L’amore molesto” in 1995), and once in Un Certain Regard with “Rehearsals for War” in 1998. His latest production, a French-Italian collaboration, features Valeria Golino (known for “Rain Man” and “Maria”) as a writer serving time for an unexpected and irrational act. Inside the prison, she forms strong connections with fellow inmates, relationships that continue even after her release. Although it’s expected to make its way to Venice, “Fuori” could potentially surprise at Cannes.

‘Hamnet’ Directed by Chloé Zhao

The filming for “Hamnet” wrapped up late last year, and given its potential release window in the fall at Venice, this Chloé Zhao-directed production (also backed by Steven Spielberg), which delves back into human drama after projects like “Nomadland” and Marvel’s “Eternals,” may still make a striking appearance at Cannes. Adapted from Maggie O’Farrell’s 2020 novel, “Hamnet” portrays the lives of William Shakespeare (Paul Mescal) and his wife Agnes Shakespeare (Jessie Buckley), following the passing of their 11-year-old son Hamnet. Supporting roles are played by Joe Alwyn and Emily Watson. Notably, this film marks Zhao’s first return to Cannes since her contemporary western “The Rider” received the Art Cinema Award in the Directors’ Fortnight section back in 2017.

‘Highest 2 Lowest’ Directed by Spike Lee

This is something to look forward to! Spike Lee’s bond with Cannes Film Festival dates back to his debut film, “She’s Gotta Have It“, which won the Prix de la Jeunesse (Award of the Youth) for best foreign debut in the Directors’ Fortnight section at the 1986 festival. “Highest 2 Lowest” is Lee’s first narrative feature film in five years and his first to star Denzel Washington as the lead since “Inside Man” in 2006. The movie combines elements of a modern New York crime thriller with a fresh take on Akira Kurosawa’s 1963 classic, “High and Low“, where Washington plays a powerful New York record executive who finds himself in a complex moral dilemma. The impressive supporting cast includes Ilfenesh Hadera, Jeffrey Wright, Ice Spice, and A$AP Rocky.

‘The History Of Sound’ Directed by Oliver Hermanus

Get ready for a possible grand swoon at the Palais! The latest film by South African director Oliver Hermanus, titled “The History of Sound“, features two highly sought-after actors, Paul Mescal and Josh O’Connor, in a heartwarming gay romantic road movie set during World War I. Written by Ben Shattuck, based on his own award-winning short story, this film follows the journey of two passionate young men who aim to capture the voices of American soldiers during the Great War. As fate would have it, they also find themselves falling in love along their extraordinary adventure.

‘Hope’ Directed by Na Hong-jin

As a diehard cinema enthusiast, I’ve eagerly been awaiting the release of South Korean director Na Hong-jin’s upcoming film, which serves as his English-language debut and follow-up to the spine-tingling “The Wailing.” Set to hit screens by May, this highly anticipated production boasts an intriguing cross-cultural cast.

Veteran South Korean actors Hwang Jung-min (“The Wailing,” “Veteran”) and Zo In-sung (“Escape From Mogadishu”) will be joining forces with the Hollywood power couple, Michael Fassbender and Alicia Vikander, who have taken on the English-language leads. The ensemble also features rising stars Taylor Russell and the sensational Jung Ho-yeon from “Squid Game.”

The film, aptly titled “Hope,” has been described as a gripping science fiction thriller that revolves around a secluded town’s chilling discovery, sending its inhabitants into a desperate struggle for survival. With the bar set high for an intense Korean arthouse experience, I can hardly contain my excitement for this potential masterpiece!

‘I Want Your Sex’ Directed by Gregg Araki

In over a decade, the renowned filmmaker known for provocative works unveils a new movie titled “I Want Your Sex“. This highly anticipated piece is bound to stir conversations all along the Croisette. The cast includes Cooper Hoffman from “Licorice Pizza” as a young assistant who secures a job for a performance artist, portrayed by Olivia Wilde. Initially, it appears that the boy’s dreams have come true when the artist offers him the role of her “sexual muse”, but soon enough he finds himself in over his head, swept up in a whirlwind of sex, obsession, power struggles, deceit, and murder. Charli XCX takes on an unspecified role in the production. Known for being thought-provoking and never lacking in excitement, Araki has previously showcased at Cannes in 2010 with “Kaboom“, a film reportedly inspired by a conversation with John Waters, which screened out of competition and won the first Queer Palme.

‘In the Hand of Dante’ Directed by Julian Schnabel

Indeed, the film “In the Hand of Dante” seems tailor-made for Venice, but let’s keep our fingers crossed for Cannes! After all, Julian Schnabel won the best director prize at Cannes for “The Diving Bell and the Butterfly” in 2007. This long-awaited literary thriller epic is adapted from Nick Tosches’ 14th-century Italy and contemporary New York-set novel of the same name, combining historical drama with a modern crime story through two interwoven narratives. Martin Scorsese, who is also reported to play a minor role in the film, serves as one of its executive producers. The star-studded cast includes Oscar Isaac, Jason Momoa, Gerard Butler, and Gal Gadot, with Sabrina Impacciatore, Franco Nero, John Malkovich, and Al Pacino in supporting roles. Filmed on location throughout Italy, it’s quite possible that the film will grace either the Croisette or Lido.

‘Jupiter’ by Andrey Zvyagintsev

It seems that the new film by renowned Russian director Andrey Zvyagintsev may miss its Cannes Film Festival deadline, making a premiere at Venice more probable. However, Cannes is keeping optimistic about possibly featuring Jupiter in their competition category. Zvyagintsev’s 2017 film, Loveless, received the Jury Prize at Cannes, and his 2014 film, Leviathan, was awarded best screenplay. Both films went on to receive Oscar nominations. The upcoming movie, Jupiter, is set in the seemingly impervious realm of a Russian oligarch, and appears to be a grittier counterpart to Sean Baker’s Palme d’Or (and Oscar) winning film, Anora.

‘Left-Handed Girl’ Directed by Shih-Ching Tsou

Tsou is set to make her directorial debut at Cannes, yet she’s no stranger to the event due to her frequent collaborations on Sean Baker’s films, such as “The Florida Project” and “Red Rocket”. The movie, titled “Left-Handed Girl”, unfolds against the lively scene of Taiwan’s night markets. It narrates the tale of a single mother and her two daughters who face challenges in adjusting to urban life upon their return to Taipei after spending several years in the countryside. Tsou collaborated with Baker on writing the film, and he also handled its editing.

‘Let the Music Fly’ (Working Title) Directed by Jiang Wen

There’s a lot of excitement brewing within the Beijing film industry about actor-director Jiang Wen’s upcoming movie as it could potentially earn China a spot at Cannes in 2025. Back in 2000, his black comedy war film Devils on the Doorstep received the Grand Prix and almost clinched the Palme D’or, ultimately losing to Lars Von Trier’s Dancer in the Dark. Jiang’s last three films – his “gangster Beiyang trilogy” consisting of Let the Bullets Fly (2010), Gone with the Bullets (2014) and Hidden Man (2018) – were commercially successful in China but didn’t make it to international festivals. The brief plot synopsis for the new movie hints at a musical drama that explores the struggles of a family who sacrifice much so their son can reach the pinnacle of classical piano performance. Jiang and Ma Li, Ge You, Zhao Benshan, Lei Jiayin among others are starring in this film.

‘Love on Trial’ Directed by Koji Fukada

Renowned Japanese director Koji Fukada, known for his breakout success with the Tadanobu Asano-starring “Harmonium” which won Un Certain Regard’s Jury Prize in 2016, is anticipated to bring another film to the Palais – “Love on Trial.” This thought-provoking social drama follows a young J-pop idol on the brink of fame who encounters public ridicule and a harsh lawsuit when it is revealed she has breached her agency’s “no love” contract by dating an old schoolmate. The film, inspired by actual Japanese court cases, offers a potent critique on the intricacies of idol culture, personal liberty, and romantic relationships, while underscoring the gender disparities and injustices that are not only prevalent in Japan, but also worldwide. As per its French sales agent MK2, this is the description.

‘The Lost Bus’ Directed by Paul Greengrass

The new movie by director Paul Greengrass, featuring Matthew McConaughey and America Ferrera, might resonate deeply within the American film industry in light of recent happenings in Los Angeles. The film is an adaptation of Lizzie Johnson’s book Paradise: One Town’s Struggle to Survive an American Wildfire, and it unfolds during the tragic 2018 Camp Fire, which became the deadliest wildfire ever recorded in California. Although it might not be considered for the Cannes Film Festival, the star power of its cast and Greengrass’s renowned action direction (evident in his groundbreaking work with the Bourne series) could secure a premiere showing.

‘The Mastermind’ Directed by Kelly Reichardt

Filmmaker Kelly Reichardt, recognized for her indie minimalism style in America, might return to the Cannes Competition with an art-heist drama, set amidst the backdrop of the Vietnam War. Following his exceptional performance in 2024’s ‘Challengers’ and ‘La Chimera’, Josh O’Connor takes the lead role alongside Alana Haim from ‘Licorice Pizza’ and frequent collaborator John Magaro (‘Showing Up’, ‘First Cow’). The production finished late in the previous year, with details mainly kept confidential. Given that Reichardt’s latest work, ‘Showing Up’, was well-received at the French festival in 2022, there is anticipation that Thierry Frémaux will try to welcome her as a new addition to the “Cannes family” with another competition entry, if the new movie is completed on time.

‘Materialists’ Directed by Celine Song

As a dedicated admirer, I can’t help but share the excitement about the upcoming film, “Materialists,” which serves as the sequel to Celine Song’s critically acclaimed 2023 Oscar-nominated masterpiece, “Past Lives.” In this captivating narrative, Dakota Johnson takes on the role of a young matchmaker in New York City, finding herself entangled between a potential perfect match and her imperfect former flame. This romantic tale unfolds with Luke Evans and Pedro Pascal essaying their roles as the two men vying for her heart. The sophisticated rom-com, now slated for U.S. release by A24 on June 13, strategically aligns itself for a potential launch at Cannes—a move that promises an unforgettable cinematic experience!

‘Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning’ Directed by Christopher McQuarrie

Every year, Cannes finds room for a grand Hollywood production, and given the circumstances of the studios’ spring lineups, it appears Tom Cruise might be the chosen one once more. The ever-vital star seemed to enjoy himself during his last visit to the Croisette. When Top Gun: Maverick was shown at the Palais in 2022, he was welcomed with a flyover of French fighter jets, an extravagant fireworks display, and a ceremonial presentation of the Palme d’Or. It’s yet to be seen how The Final Reckoning could surpass that legendary Cannes moment, but whispers suggest the movie might be Cruise’s final outing as Ethan Hunt, so if it does premiere in Cannes, expect both Cannes and Paramount to really go all out.

‘Musk’ Directed by Alex Gibney

Given Elon Musk’s frequent updates, it seems Alex Gibney, an Academy Award-winning documentarian known for films like “Taxi to the Dark Side” and “Enron: The Smartest Guys in the Room,” is constantly revising his portrayal of the South African tech billionaire, Doge leader, and former Trump administration troublemaker. If completed in time for Cannes, this film could become this year’s equivalent of “The Apprentice,” with attacks from Musk and his followers being a likely outcome. Unlike Ali Abassi’s movie which premiered at Cannes without a U.S. distributor, Gibney’s documentary has already been sold domestically, with HBO Documentary Films acquiring North American television and streaming rights, while Universal Pictures will handle international distribution.

‘My Father’s Shadow’ Directed by Akinola Davies

The long-awaited first full-length film from British-Nigerian director Akinola Davies, who gained recognition with his BAFTA-nominated short film “Lizard” and won at Sundance, could potentially win the Camera d’Or award if it’s accepted for Cannes. Starring Ṣọpẹ Dìrísù from “Gangs of London” and “Slow Horses”, this semi-autobiographical movie portrays a day in Lagos, Nigeria during the 1993 election crisis. The narrative focuses on a father who is separated from his two young sons as they navigate the sprawling city amidst political upheaval, risking their return journey home. Financed by Element Pictures, known for “Poor Things”, “My Father’s Shadow” has already been purchased in advance by Mubi for many parts of the world.

‘No Other Choice’ Directed by Park Chan-wook

If the dark comedy thriller “No Other Choice” by Korean director Park Chan-wook, an adaptation of Donald E. Westlake’s novel “The Ax,” is completed on time, it’s likely that he will be included in Cannes’ competition. This film brings together Park and Lee Byung-hun, who first collaborated in their breakthrough film “Joint Security Area.” The story revolves around an unemployed man resorting to extreme measures like murdering his job competitors. The movie is currently undergoing postproduction, but there are indications that Cannes may be too early for its premiere. Given that Cannes has yet to honor Park with a Palme d’Or for any of his exceptional works shown at the festival (such as “Oldboy,” “The Handmaiden,” and “Decision to Leave”), it is understandable if he decides to try his luck in Venice with this film instead.

‘Nouvelle Vague’ Directed by Richard Linklater

It’s challenging to conceive of a more fitting American independent film for the Cannes Film Festival than Richard Linklater, the Austin impresario, who is set to present his ode to the French New Wave. Titled Nouvelle Vague, the movie was filmed on location in Paris and narrates the journey of Jean-Luc Godard transitioning from a critic at Cahiers du Cinéma to a first-time director with the production of his groundbreaking film, Breathless. Guillaume Marbeck embodies the young Godard, while Zoey Deutch assumes the role of his leading lady, Jean Seberg. The entire film is spoken in French and was shot in Paris using black and white film with a 4:3 aspect ratio. According to Linklater, his aim in making this movie was to illustrate the passion of cinephiles.

‘One Battle After Another’ Directed by Paul Thomas Anderson

Paul Thomas Anderson hasn’t won at Cannes since he received the best director prize for “Punch-Drunk Love” in 2002. His latest film, “One Battle After Another”, might prolong this streak as it is rumored to be the most expensive production in his career with a budget over $140 million. Warner Bros has scheduled its theatrical release on Aug. 8. Securing this project for Cannes would be a significant achievement. The film appears to be loosely based on Thomas Pynchon’s 1990 novel “Vineland”, and it stars Leonardo DiCaprio, alongside Sean Penn, Regina Hall, Alana Haim, Teyana Taylor, Benicio del Toro, among others.

‘Orphan’ Directed by László Nemes

László Nemes’ latest movie, following his critically acclaimed works “Son of Saul” and “Sunset,” is a story about a young boy growing up during the 1956 Hungarian Uprising. This partially autobiographical film follows Andor, a 12-year-old whose life is turned upside down when a man claiming to be his long-lost father reappears after his dad vanished during the revolution. Last year, Nemes filmed “Orphan” on location in Budapest and plans to present it at Cannes this year.

‘Orwell’ Directed by Raoul Peck

As a passionate gamer, I’m thrilled to share that an upcoming film titled “Orwell,” directed by the renowned Haitian filmmaker Raoul Peck (known for masterpieces like “I Am Not Your Negro” and “Exterminate All the Brutes”), is something I can’t wait to see. This film delves deep into the life, works, and lasting impact of George Orwell, the author behind “Animal Farm” and “1984.”

Peck was granted full cooperation by the Orwell Estate, giving him access to Orwell’s archives and rare materials. Instead of a traditional biography, Peck’s “Orwell” is expected to offer an insightful analysis of this great political writer’s origins, ideas, and their resonance in today’s world.

Neon has already secured the North American rights for “Orwell,” which suggests it could be a strong contender for awards. Given the film’s timely themes and Peck’s history at Cannes (he was on the jury in 2012, and “I Am Not Your Negro” was screened in Directors’ Fortnight), “Orwell” seems like a perfect fit for a sidebar or even a special screening in the main selection.

In simpler terms, I’m eagerly awaiting this film that explores George Orwell’s life and ideas through an innovative lens, with a focus on their relevance to modern society. The fact that it’s being directed by Raoul Peck, who has a strong connection to Cannes, increases my anticipation for its release.

‘Pillion’ Directed by Harry Lighton

For some time now, there’s been quite a buzz surrounding Harry Lighton’s first feature film, making it seem fitting for screenings in the Un Certain Regard or Directors’ Fortnight sections. This movie is a queer love story that unfolds against the gritty backdrop of the British biker subculture during the 1970s. Alexander Skarsgård portrays the captivating leader of an unorthodox motorcycle gang, who enlists a shy, wallflower character played by Harry Melling, as his new submissive. Known for its “humorous and explicit romantic” themes, Pillion was a highly sought-after production at the Cannes market last year before being acquired by A24.

‘The Phoenician Scheme’ Directed by Wes Anderson

In late May, Anderson’s latest movie, “The Phoenician Scheme,” will be released by Focus Features. This film is expected to feature one of the biggest and most star-studded casts at this year’s Cannes Film Festival red carpet. The plot details are still under wraps, as the script was co-written by Anderson and Roman Coppola, much like his previous works. Described as a comedy-drama with espionage themes, the cast includes Benicio del Toro, Mia Threapleton, Michael Cera, Tom Hanks, Bryan Cranston, Riz Ahmed, Jeffrey Wright, Scarlett Johansson, Richard Ayoade, Rupert Friend, Hope Davis, Benedict Cumberbatch, and Imad Mardnli. Anderson has a history of premiering his films at Cannes, including his recent releases “Asteroid City” and “The French Dispatch.

‘Resurrection’ Directed by Bi Gan

If a contemporary filmmaker resembling Andrei Tarkovsky could be found anywhere today, it might very well be Bi Gan, a 35-year-old Chinese prodigy. The breathtaking 59-minute single-take 3D shot that concluded Bi’s acclaimed Cannes Un Certain Regard film, Long Day’s Journey Into Night, has left an indelible mark on cinephiles everywhere, and anticipation is high for his upcoming release. Featuring two of the most stunning faces in Chinese-language cinema – Jackson Yee and Shu Qi – Resurrection promises to be a sci-fi detective story set in the year 2068 and various other time periods, weaving together dreams and reality. Rumors from the production suggest that Bi has once again taken up his exploration of stereoscopic 3D camera technology, but he may struggle to complete the ambitious project before the Cannes deadline in 2025.

‘Rosebush Pruning’ Directed by Karim Aïnouz

In simpler terms, the film “Rosebush Pruning” is directed by Brazilian filmmaker and artist Karim Aïnouz, who has previously showcased his work at Cannes Film Festival. This upcoming drama-thriller boasts an impressive ensemble cast that includes Riley Keough, Callum Turner, Elle Fanning, Lukas Gage, Pamela Anderson, among others. The film is supported by production companies such as The Apartment Pictures, Mubi, and Fremantle.

“Rosebush Pruning” serves as a reinterpretation of Marco Bellocchio’s 1965 debut feature “Fists in the Pocket,” a thought-provoking dark satire that critiques traditional family values. The screenplay for this film is written by Efthimis Filippou, who has frequently collaborated with Yorgos Lanthimos on projects like “The Killing of a Sacred Deer,” “The Lobster,” and “Kinds of Kindness.” This suggests that the movie might offer a subtly twisted social commentary.

‘Sacrifice’ Directed by Romain Gavras

Romain Gavras, a French filmmaker who is the son of Costa-Gavras, might be aiming for an out-of-competition slot with his English-language debut, titled “Sacrifice.” This action-adventure media satire was highly sought after at last year’s Cannes market. Starring an impressive ensemble cast including Anya Taylor-Joy, Chris Evans, Salma Hayek, Vincent Cassel, Charli XCX, and John Malkovich, the film unfolds at a glitzy charity event that spirals into chaos when a cult-like group invades it, intending to sacrifice three individuals in order to fulfill an ancient prophecy believed to save humanity. Gavras previously gained international acclaim with his 2022 film Athena, which premiered at Venice and was distributed on Netflix. “Sacrifice” appears to be equally gripping.

‘Sentimental Value’ Directed by Joachim Trier

Joachim Trier, a filmmaker from Norway, has consistently progressed through the festival circuit, much like the established path of Cannes. His second film, titled “Oslo, August 31st” (2011), was first shown in Un Certain Regard category. This was followed by his debut in competition with “Louder Than Bombs” in 2015. Trier then achieved triumph on the Croisette with “The Worst Person of the World” in 2021, which earned Renate Reinsve best actress honors and two Oscar nominations. Now, Trier and Reinsve are back together for their new film, titled “Sentimental Value“, where Reinsve plays Nora, an actress dealing with the loss of her mother alongside her sister Agnes (Inga Ibsdotter Lilleaas). If completed on time, a premiere at Cannes is expected.

‘Silent Friend’ Directed by Ildiko Enyedi

Ildiko Enyedi, a Hungarian filmmaker, is a strong contender in upcoming competitions. Her latest work, titled “Marburg’s Ancient Witness,” is a drama set in a medieval university town in Germany, specifically Marburg. The story spans over more than a century and is told from the perspective of an isolated old tree standing in the heart of the city’s botanical garden. This film serves as Enyedi’s sequel to her 2021 entry to Cannes competition, “The Story of My Wife.” The star-studded cast boasts French actress Léa Seydoux and Hong Kong legend Tony Leung Chiu-wai, known for his work in “In the Mood for Love,” gracing the red carpet.

‘The Smashing Machine’ Directed by Benny Safdie

In anticipation, another noteworthy production from A24 titled “The Smashing Machine” is set to be the solo directorial debut of the younger Safdie brother. Following his amusing and unsettling television series collaborations with Nathan Fielder on “The Curse“, this film delves into the tumultuous and victorious life story of mixed martial arts icon Mark Kerr, affectionately known as “The Smashing Machine.” Portrayed by Dwayne Johnson, also known as “The Rock,” this film promises thrilling fight scenes that he is sure to execute masterfully. However, what seems to be generating the most buzz is the prospect of witnessing Johnson take on a deep, dramatic role, marking a departure from his usual action hero persona. If all goes according to plan, “The Smashing Machine” will be Safdie’s return to Cannes since he and his brother premiered “Goodtime” in competition back in 2017.

‘Sons of the Neon Night’ Directed by Juno Mak

For over a decade, Hong Kong creative Juno Mak has been developing the crime drama, “Sons of the Neon Night.” This film has sparked interest among cinephiles due to its unique aspects. Set in a snow-covered, futuristic version of Hong Kong that leans toward the fantastical, it boasts an impressive cast including Takeshi Kaneshiro, Tony Leung Ka-fai, Sean Lau, Louis Koo, and Ritchie Jen, among others. With a reported budget of $50 million, it’s one of the priciest films in Hong Kong cinema history. Ryuichi Sakamoto, the late renowned composer, has created a new score for the movie. Mak caught attention with his action-horror debut, “Rigor Mortis,” released in 2013. “Sons of the Neon Night” was announced as his next project in 2015, and now, after much anticipation, it’s almost ready for release. Insiders in the Hong Kong film industry suggest it might premiere at Cannes Film Festival, possibly in a late-night screening slot like last year’s Hong Kong action flick, “Twilight of the Warriors: Walled In.

‘The Stories’ Directed by Abu Bakr Shawky

Film director Abu Bakr Shawky, who made waves with his debut film “Yomeddine” at the Cannes Film Festival in 2018, might be coming back to the Cannes Film Festival with a new period piece that spans Europe and the Middle East. The narrative centers around two pen friends: Ahmed from Egypt and Liz from Austria, who establish a long-distance friendship starting in the summer of 1967 and lasting through the 1980s, amidst all the personal and political turmoil of that era. Amir El Masry (“The Night Manager”) and Valérie Pachner (“A Hidden Life”) are set to star. If everything goes as planned, the movie “The Stories” should be completed in time for a debut in May, and with support from Cannes veterans Goodfellas, it appears likely that it will compete either in the main competition or Un Certain Regard.

‘Two Prosecutors’ Directed by Sergey Loznitsa

As a devoted admirer, I’m thrilled to share that Ukrainian director Sergey Loznitsa is currently in post-production for his first narrative feature since 2018’s acclaimed film, Donbass. This work earned him the Un Certain Regard directing prize. Recently, Loznitsa has been focusing on nonfiction pieces such as The Invasion (2024), The Natural History of Destruction (2022), Babi Yar, and Context (2021), all of which made their debuts in Cannes.

The upcoming 1937-set drama, Two Prosecutors, is an adaptation of Georgi Demidov’s novel of the same name. This compelling story revolves around a law school graduate who encounters the harsh realities of Stalinism. If selected for competition, it would mark Loznitsa’s fourth Palme d’or contender, following My Joy (2010), In the Fog (2012), and A Gentle Creature (2017).

‘Unidentified’ Directed by Haifaa Al-Mansour

Haifaa Al Mansour’s initial film, titled “Wadjda“, marked several unprecedented milestones: It was the inaugural work helmed by a female director from Saudi Arabia, it was entirely filmed within the country, and it served as Saudi Arabia’s first entry for the Oscars. Haifaa Al Mansour’s latest production, categorized as an Arabic mystery-thriller, unfolds when a girl’s lifeless body is discovered in the desert without identification. This film was picked up by Sony Pictures Classics in February and is scheduled to premiere at either Cannes or Venice Film Festival.

‘Vie Privée’ Directed by Rebecca Zlotowski

This year, Rebecca Zlotowski’s French murder mystery story might be comparable to “Anatomy of a Fall.” In this production, Jodie Foster, who is proficient in French, portrays a well-respected psychiatrist embarking on her own private investigation into the suspected murder of one of her patients. A distinguished cast of French actors, including Daniel Auteuil, Virginie Efira, Mathieu Amalric, Vincent Lacoste, and Luana Bajrami, join her in this movie. Zlotowski’s 2022 film “Other People’s Children” made its debut at Venice, but the director has previously showcased her work at Cannes, with “Dear Prudence” (2010) premiering in Critics’ Week and “Grand Central” (2013) being presented in Un Certain Regard.

‘The Wave’ Directed by Sebastián Lelio

Sebastian Lelio’s feminist musical, influenced by the 2018 Chilean protests against violence towards women, could be this year’s equivalent to “Emilia Perez,” although without the Twitter controversy. Lelio filmed the movie in Chile last spring and is expected to have it ready for Cannes. However, aside from his 2009 film “Navidad,” Lelio typically prefers festivals like Berlin (where “Gloria” in 2013 and “A Fantastic Woman” in 2017 premiered) or Toronto (where he brought “Disobedience” in 2017, “Gloria Bell” in 2018, and “The Wonder” in 2022, with the latter also screening at Telluride). It’s likely that “The Wave” will appear at one of the autumn festivals (San Sebastian being another possibility), but this doesn’t rule out the chance it could surprise at Cannes.

‘The Way of the Wind’ Directed by Terrence Malick

Once again, the inclusion of “The Way of the Wind” on the Cannes list signifies another year of anticipation for its release. This highly acclaimed director Terrence Malick, who won the Palme D’or in 2011 for his masterpiece “The Tree of Life”, is said to have filmed approximately 3,000 hours of footage when production started in 2019 and has been editing it ever since. This biblical epic revolves around the life of Jesus, with Géza Röhrig (“Son of Saul”) portraying Jesus, Matthias Schoenaerts as Saint Peter, Mark Rylance as Satan, Tawfeek Barhom as John the Baptist, Aidan Turner as Saint Andrew, and Ben Kingsley, Joseph Fiennes, and Douglas Booth in unspecified roles.

‘Woman and Child’ Directed by Saeed Roustayi

Goodfellas Company from France, often referred to as the “whisperers of Cannes,” have taken on sales for this Iranian drama by Saeed Roustayi, titled “Leila’s Brothers“. This film marks Roustayi’s first project since his 2022 Cannes Palme d’Or nominee, “Leila’s Brothers“, hinting that they anticipate Roustayi to return to the Cannes Film Festival in May. Described as a modern family drama revolving around themes of revenge and forgiveness, the film features Parinaz Izadyar (from “Law of Tehran“) as a grieving nurse dealing with her defiant son. After a heart-wrenching accident, she finds herself wrestling with feelings of betrayal while simultaneously pursuing justice.

‘Yes’ Directed by Nadav Lapid

Nadav Lapid, the Israeli filmmaker who won the Berlin 2019 Golden Bear for “Synonyms” and the Cannes 2021 jury prize for “Ahed’s Knee”, is planning to return to Cannes with his fifth movie. This film is a drama centered around a character who, similar to Jim Carrey’s role in the 2008 movie “Yes Man”, chooses to respond affirmatively to every situation in life. The French production company, Les Films du Bal, based in Paris, will be supporting this project as they did for “Ahed’s Knee” and Mati Diop’s “Atlantics” (winner of the Cannes jury prize in 2019).

‘The Young Mother’s Home’ Directed by the Dardenne Brothers

At the Cannes Film Festival once more, the Dardenne brothers bring their innovative touch. This esteemed duo, winners of the Palme d’Or twice (for “Rosetta” in 1999 and “L’Enfant” in 2005), are back on the Croisette with their newest Belgian social drama, focusing on five women residing in a shelter for young mothers. It has been two decades since they last claimed the top film prize, but the Dardennes continue to be regulars at Cannes, and it would be unexpected if they aren’t competing again this year.

2025-03-10 17:28