The 78th Cannes Film Festival is set to dazzle film enthusiasts from May 13 to 24, 2025, with a lineup that promises to showcase both established and emerging talent in the cinematic world. The official selection was revealed on April 10, 2025, by festival director Thierry Frémaux and jury president Juliette Binoche, who will oversee the prestigious event.
This year's competition features 19 films, including works from renowned directors such as Wes Anderson, Richard Linklater, Julia Ducournau, and Ari Aster. Anderson's "The Phoenician Scheme" is among the highly anticipated entries, while Linklater's "Nouvelle Vague" pays homage to the French New Wave, shot in Paris. Ducournau, a previous Palme d'Or winner, returns with her latest film, "Alpha," adding to the excitement of this year's festival.
The festival will kick off with the opening night film "Leave One Day" by first-time French filmmaker Amélie Bonnin, marking a significant milestone as it is the first time a debut film has been selected to open the festival. This year also sees the return of horror auteur Ari Aster with his A24 feature "Eddington," which is expected to generate considerable buzz.
Other notable films in competition include Jochim Trier's "Sentimental Value," Kelly Reichardt's "The Mastermind," and Jafar Panahi's "In Simple Accident." The lineup reflects a diverse range of storytelling, with themes spanning from personal narratives to social commentaries.
In addition to the competition films, the festival will feature Tom Cruise's "Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning," which will debut out of competition on May 14, 2025. This high-octane film is expected to draw significant crowds, especially with Cruise's star power and the film's reputation for thrilling action sequences.
The festival will also honor Robert De Niro with an honorary Palme d'Or at the opening night ceremony, recognizing his contributions to the film industry over the years. Binoche, who has had a distinguished career in cinema, will lead the jury in selecting the winners of this year's awards.
"We are thrilled to present such a compelling lineup this year," said Frémaux during the announcement. "The festival received a record number of submissions, totaling 2,909 features, which speaks to the vibrant state of global cinema today." This year’s competition also highlights the work of six female directors, including Ducournau and Mascha Schilinski, who is presenting her film "Sound of Falling." This consistent representation of female filmmakers is a positive trend in an industry that has historically been male-dominated.
Among the films in the Un Certain Regard section, Scarlett Johansson will premiere her directorial debut, "Eleanor the Great," which tells the story of a 90-year-old woman who moves to New York City after the death of her best friend. The film explores themes of friendship and resilience across generations. Harris Dickinson will also debut his directorial project, "Urchin," which focuses on the struggles of a homeless man in London.
As always, the Cannes Film Festival is not just about the films but also the star-studded red carpet events. This year, audiences can expect to see a plethora of celebrities, including Joaquin Phoenix, Emma Stone, and Pedro Pascal, who are all starring in Aster's "Eddington." The festival's glamorous atmosphere is anticipated to attract significant media attention, further elevating the profiles of the featured films.
Thierry Frémaux emphasized that the festival is a celebration of cinema, stating, "Cannes is where filmmakers come together to showcase their work and engage in meaningful discussions about the art of storytelling. We are excited to welcome both established filmmakers and new voices to the Croisette this year." With a focus on innovation and creativity, the festival aims to highlight the evolving landscape of cinema.
The festival's official selection includes a variety of genres, from romantic dramas to thought-provoking documentaries, ensuring that there is something for every type of film lover. The excitement surrounding the festival is palpable, with many cinephiles eagerly awaiting the opportunity to view the films that could potentially shape the awards season.
As the countdown to the festival continues, many are left wondering which films will leave a lasting impression and which directors will take home the coveted Palme d'Or. The anticipation builds as the festival approaches, promising a celebration of cinematic excellence that will resonate long after the last film has screened.
In summary, the 78th Cannes Film Festival is shaping up to be a landmark event in the film industry, showcasing a rich tapestry of narratives and talents from around the globe. With an impressive lineup of films, a commitment to diversity, and a celebration of cinematic artistry, this year's festival is sure to be one for the history books.
