On Thursday, the Cannes Film Festival announced its 76th edition roster. Which includes Martin Scorsese, Wes Anderson, Wim Wenders, Kore-eda Hirokazu, and Todd Haynes. These filmmakers will show their work both in and out of competition. They are all familiar with Cannes’s red carpets, having previously screened films there.
Cannes has been chastised for being too clubby. For not being as interested in highlighting the changing face of cinema as other big festivals. However, it did make progress in terms of representation. After being chastised for not including more female directors in its lineup. Cannes will break its own record this year with six films directed by women. Including Alice Rohrwacher’s “La Chimera,” Jessica Hausner’s “Club Zero,” Catherine Breillat’s Last Summer, Justine Triet’s “Anatomie d’une chute,” and Kaouther Ben Hania’s documentary “Olfa’s Daughters.”
Diversity in selection process
Outside of the main competition, Cannes’ Un Certain Regard will feature a diverse selection of developing and up-and-coming directors from around the world. Including a significant delegation of African films. And a first film from Mongolia, Zoljargal Purevdash’s “If Only I Could Hibernate.” The French film “Le Règne Animal” by Thomas Cailley, whose feature debut “Les Combattants” earned a couple Cesar Awards, will kick off Un Certain Regard.
Cannes has become the world’s most well-known film festival. Its star-studded red carpets, lavish parties, haute couture, Mediterranean panoramas. And a dash of sunlight are practically associated with Hollywood’s glamorous side. However, the industry is evolving. With studios increasingly focused on promoting their streaming services. While suffering budget cuts and layoffs in the aftermath of a likely recession. Although the roster included a number of films from big studios. As well as the premieres of “Top Gun: Maverick” and “Elvis,” it’s unknown how joyous people will be feeling and how freely they will spend.
The festival will kick off with Maiwenn’s period drama “Jeanne du Barry,” starring Johnny Depp. Ruben Stlund, the Swedish director who won the Palme d’Or twice for his films “The Square” and “Triangle of Sadness,” will preside over the festival. The 76th Cannes Film Festival will take place from May 16 to May 27.