It’s an exciting time for film—the Cannes Film Festival just released its program, and the 2023 lineup looks incredible. It will be a mix of star-powered features, stirring docs and meaningful tributes. The festival opens in early May with world premieres of artistic works featuring the world’s most famous directors and primetime stars. It will help bring attention to vital social issues.
Among the most anticipated films is Spike Lee’s latest effort in his long-running collaboration with Denzel Washington, “Highest 2 Lowest. This is the fifth film that the two have collaborated on together. It will premiere out of competition, further raising the excitement level around the whole festival’s program.
Iranian filmmaker Sepideh Farsi will present her documentary on late Palestinian photographer Fatima Hassouna. This remarkable presentation will serve as one of the last, powerful testaments to both the arts and activism. Unfortunately, Hassouna would soon be tragically killed, along with the rest of her family, during an Israeli strike on their home in Gaza. Farsi’s work seeks to underscore the detrimental effect that violence of this nature has on artistic expression and memory.
One of the festival’s big draws will be a documentary on the life of Bono, the longtime frontman with the legendary rock band U2. Making a film for the screen adaptation of George Orwell’s life and works is on the agenda. It aims to entertain and challenge audiences with its bold, controversial ideas.
Robert De Niro will be awarded this year’s honorary Palme d’Or for his outstanding contribution to cinema. This recognition pays tribute to his impressive body of work and underscores the festival’s dedication to honoring excellence in filmmaking.
Joining her will be Jennifer Lawrence in her star turn, Die My Love, directed by Lynne Ramsay. Her performance is sure to create a buzz among critics and audiences.
Wes Anderson is about to premiere his next picture, “The Phoenician Scheme.” The astonishing cast includes rock stars like Scarlett Johansson, Benicio Del Toro, Tom Hanks and Benedict Cumberbatch. The reunion miniseries To be sure, the film will be filled with Anderson’s distinctive touch, blending quirky storytelling with a famous cast of characters.
In another special coup, Scarlett Johansson will introduce her directorial debut, “Eleanor the Great.” This is a big step in her profession. Now she’s taking the director’s chair herself to further bring her vision to audiences.
Kristin Stewart has been waiting a long time to show off her directorial chops. She will be in residence adapting Lidia Yuknavitch’s memoir, “The Chronology of Water” for the stage. The film explores themes of identity and resilience, reflecting Stewart’s commitment to nuanced storytelling.
Ari Aster’s new film Eddington—starring Joaquin Phoenix and Emma Stone—opens this week. Revenge Ride, set against the backdrop of the pandemic, is a dark comedy Western. This genre-blending, true-life tale is sure to provide audiences with a thrilling, one-of-a-kind cinematic experience.
Critically lauded French actress Juliette Binoche will serve as president of this year’s festival jury. She will be joined by fellow artists Halle Berry and Jeremy Strong. Their unique perspectives and expansive experience in the world of film will help make for an informed, colorful discussion about all the films we’ll be showcasing.
Even actor Gerard Depardieu just faced the music. In September of last year, he was convicted of sex crimes against two women on the set of the 2021 film Rust. Naturally, his legal troubles were a dark cloud over the festival. As it gets ready to celebrate artistic achievements in film, it does so while continuing to confront the new reality of safety and accountability in the industry.
The festival continues its tradition of showcasing international films with “Once Upon a Time In Gaza,” directed by Palestinian twins Tarzan and Arab Nasser. The inclusion of this film in the Un Certain Regard section beautifully continues Cannes’ commitment to enriching the cinematic landscape with refreshing, diverse narratives and perspectives.
“the American industry being penalised, not ours” – French Culture Minister Rachida Dati
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