Netflix secures Richard Linklater’s Cannes hit ‘Nouvelle Vague’

Netflix has secured the distribution rights to Richard Linklater's critically acclaimed Cannes entry "Nouvelle Vague", outbidding its rivals, as confirmed by Variety.

With Netflix acquiring the film, it's uncertain whether it will receive a widespread theatrical release beyond the minimum two-week run required for awards eligibility. This limited cinema presence adds an ironic twist, given that "Nouvelle Vague" is a tribute to Jean-Luc Godard's "Breathless"—a landmark film in the history of cinema. 

Linklater's work earned a rousing reception at Cannes, culminating in a six-and-a-half-minute standing ovation. Among those moved by the film was "Pulp Fiction" director Quentin Tarantino.

Reflecting on the journey, Linklater addressed the audience at the premiere: "Being here tonight means everything to us. Just over a year ago, we were filming on this very spot. We dreamed of presenting our movie here and thought how surreal it would be—and now we're living it. That's the magic of cinema." 

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"This project meant so much to all of us—to honor that era, that place in film history. Every cast and crew member poured their hearts into making this moment come alive. Thank you for sharing it with us," he added.

"Nouvelle Vague" offers Linklater's reimagining of the origin story behind the French New Wave classic. Guillaume Marbeck takes on the role of Jean-Luc Godard, joined by co-stars Zoey Deutch, Adrien Rouyard, and Aubry Dullin. Notably, this is Linklater's first feature filmed entirely in French.