Cannes Film Festival kicks off amid global uncertainty
The 78th Cannes Film Festival, running from May 13 to 24 this year, once again transforms the French Riviera into a global celebration of cinema.
Filmmakers, producers, sales agents, and journalists from around the world converge to showcase and discover new films, emphasising that storytelling transcends borders. However, this year's festival unfolds under the shadow of proposed US tariffs on foreign films, announced by President Donald Trump.
For all latest news, follow The Daily Star's Google News channel. The 100% tariff proposal has sparked concern across the international film community, potentially impacting the distribution of Cannes-selected films in the lucrative US market.
Star-studded red carpet
Yet again, the festival's red carpet will undoubtedly shine with Hollywood luminaries. Tom Cruise is set to attend the premiere of "Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning". Robert De Niro will be honoured with the prestigious Palme d'Or, with Angelina Jolie presenting the award. Other notable attendees include Jennifer Lawrence, Joaquin Phoenix, Denzel Washington, and Emma Stone.
Directorial debuts
Actors Scarlett Johansson, Kristen Stewart, and Harris Dickinson will make their directorial debuts in the Un Certain Regard section. Johansson's "Eleanor the Great", Stewart's "The Chronology of Water", and Dickinson's "Urchin" will compete, showcasing fresh perspectives from established performers.
Focus on Palestine
The ongoing conflict in Gaza finds a voice at Cannes through several films. Iranian director Sepideh Farsi's documentary "Put Your Soul on Your Hand and Walk" tells the story of Gazan photojournalist Fatima Hassouna, who was killed along with ten family members in an Israeli airstrike.
Additionally, "Once Upon a Time in Gaza", directed by Arab and Tarzan Nasser, is set to compete in the Un Certain Regard section, highlighting the human cost of the conflict.
Intense competition
This year's competition for the Palme d'Or is fierce, with 22 films vying for the top prize. Notable entries include "The Young Mothers' Home" by the Dardenne brothers, "The History of Sound" featuring Josh O'Connor, and Iranian director Jafar Panahi's "It Was Just an Accident". Themes range from historical dramas to contemporary social issues, reflecting the festival's diverse selection.
Bangladesh's historic entry
Bangladesh marks a milestone with its first official selection at Cannes this year. Adnan Al Rajeev's short film "Ali", co-produced by Tanveer Hossain of Bangladesh and Kristine De Leon of the Philippines, is featured in the Short Film section. The 15-minute film's inclusion signifies a growing recognition of Bangladeshi cinema on the international stage.
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