The 78th consecutive edition of the Cannes Film Festival will take place from May 13 – May 25 of 2025. This year’s festival will not only showcase a diverse lineup of films but will reaffirm its commitment to combating sexism and sexual violence, issues that have gained prominence since 2018.
In answer to these urgent issues, the festival has done so. They’ve led the effort to create a specialized help desk to address occurrences of sexist/sexual violence at the conference. The addition of this resource marks the latest in the festival’s proactive approach to establishing a safer space for everyone on the festival grounds.
The festival will open with “Partir Un Jour.” We can’t wait to share this debut feature film by Amélie Bonnin with the world, a strong new entry into the international film spotlight. This combination further exemplifies the festival’s dedication to highlighting up-and-coming talent, with the number of female directors at the helm.
Of all the films in competition, only six of the 19 directors are female. Other prominent names are Kelly Reichardt, Julia Ducournau, Carla Simon, Mascha Schilinski, Chie Hayakawa, and Hafsia Herzi. Though fictional, it’s indicative of the growing recognition for women’s influence on film. All are advocating for more diversity and inclusion within the industry.
In addition to Bonnin’s opening film, esteemed director Richard Linklater’s “Nouvelle Vague” will be screened. The film tells the story of Jean-Luc Godard’s creation of the iconic film “Breathless,” offering audiences a unique perspective on cinematic history.
Julia Ducournau returns to Cannes with her latest work “Alpha,” following her critically acclaimed film “Grave” (Raw), while Oliver Hermanus’ “The History of Sound,” featuring Josh O’Connor and Paul Mescal, explores themes of love and identity through a gay musical romance.
The festival will go on to screen “Titane,” an earlier Palme d’Or winner, a testament to the rewards of strange and visionary new storytelling.
The Un Certain Regard sidebar selection promises to spotlight a range of emerging talents, including actors making their directorial debuts. This swath of the river is home to several amazing finalist projects. Watch Scarlett Johansson’s “Eleanor The Great,” Harris Dickinson’s “Urchin” and Morad Mostafa’s “Aisha Can’t Fly Away Anymore. Other films completing this category are Meteors by Hubert Charuel and My Father’s Shadow by Akinola Davies Jr. Harry Lighton’s “Pillion” brings an impressive and distinct style to the list.
Additionally, the festival will present “Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning,” an Out of Competition film that is expected to attract considerable attention due to its star-studded cast and blockbuster status.
The festival’s ongoing commitment to addressing systemic issues within the industry has been emphasized by key figures involved in its organization. Commission rapporteur Erwan Balanant, MP, called these challenges “systemic,” “endemic,” and “persistent.” He stated that “our society, which is still profoundly sexist and patriarchal” necessitates urgent action.
Sandrine Rousseau, chairwoman of the commission, bolstered this mindset by proclaiming that Cannes is “the venue for changing minds.” Her remarks capture the spirit and intent of participants as a whole, perhaps, to create a space for everyone to feel safe, appreciated, and dignified.
“We hear you, we believe you, we will support you and we no longer want this world to be structured in this way.” – Sandrine Rousseau
In a lighter note regarding the festival’s Out of Competition category, Spike Lee expressed his excitement about his new project being part of Cannes:
“The place for this change of attitude, where we say loud and clear, institutionally but also with the glitter and the red carpets, at the microphone and on the podium, that at last we all want, all the players, all the levels of these professions, for things to change – because this is not acceptable.” – Sandrine Rousseau
Excitement for the upcoming fest is through the roof. This year’s event marks an important moment to recognize cinematic accomplishments in front of the camera and behind the scenes while highlighting the ongoing important conversations around gender equality and safety in film.
“Bon Jour. Good Morning. Whaddup. Da New SPIKE LEE JOINT-HIGHEST 2 LOWEST Starring My Brother DENZEL WASHINGTON Has Been Invited To Da 2025 CANNES INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL (In The Out Of Competition Category).” – Spike Lee
As anticipation builds for the festival, it is clear that this year’s event will not only celebrate cinematic achievements but also bring vital conversations about gender equality and safety in film to the forefront.
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