The 77th edition of the Cannes Festival, which takes place from May 14 to 25, 2024, started four days ago, plunging the Croisette in a contagious effervescence. With 35,000 accreditations and a myriad of guests, several dozen films in each section, some of which are very expected, this edition promises to be rich in emotions and film discoveries. The stars flock to large numbers, whether they are there for films or simply to celebrate cinema. Among the personalities present, there are Francis Ford Coppola, Faye DunawayRichard Gere, Léa Seydoux, Adam Driver, and George Lucas, among others.
An opening ceremony under the sign of commitment
The opening ceremony, hosted by French actress Camille Cottin, was a highlight of this edition. His speech, combining poetry and emotion, knew how to captivate the audience, transporting them to a “Cannes vortex” where passion, dialogue and cultural diversity mix. Camille Cottin shone with her charisma and elegance, marking the spirits with a poignant discourse that tackled crucial issues, such as the fight against sexual harassment in the film industry. She stressed the importance of continuing to fight against these behaviors, a message supported by the festival which set up a listening unit for the victims, and projected the short film Me too of Judith Godrèche. The latter was presented during the opening ceremony of the Un certain Look and the beach cinema, freely accessible to the public, thus reaffirming the commitment of the festival.
The opening film, The second act From Quentin Dupieux, offered a reflection on cinema and his future, exploring these themes through laughter and self -deprecation. This work offers an incisive self-criticism of cinema and artists, sailing between the filming sequences and the making-of, creating a constant vagueness between reality and fiction. In Cannes, the film aroused contrasting reactions: some loved it, others hated it. Although confusing for some, the film perfectly embodies the festival’s commitment to a cinema that does not hesitate to question and renew itself.
Meryl Streep, the star of the Croisette
Meryl Streep, undisputed icon of cinema, made a triumphant return to La Croisette, 35 years after her interpretation price for A cry in the night (1988). The American actress received the palm of gold of honor, thus joining legends such as Jeanne Moreau, Catherine Deneuve and Jodie Foster. This distinction marks recognition of his exceptional contribution to the cinema and was celebrated with a palpable emotion by the guests and by Juliette Binoche who gave her her trophy. Meryl Streep, appearing like a goddess in an elegant white dress, received this award to nourished applause, symbolizing the respect and admiration of her peers as well as the public around the world.
A competition rich in talent
This year, 21 films are in official competition, Only four made by women, a figure still too low. Among the directors in the running, we note the return, after 45 years of absence, of Francis Ford Coppola with Megalopolisas well as the presence of regular festival directors such as the Brazilian Karim Aïnouz with Motel DestinoDavid Cronenberg with The shrouds and Iranian Mohammad Rasoulof with The Seed of the Sacred Fig. The latter, recently sentenced to eight years in prison in Iran, lashes and the confiscation of all his property, managed to leave the country clandestly and could surprise the public by appearing in Cannes. His last work is in official competition, thus marking a poignant moment of resistance and perseverance in the face of oppression.
Who will win the Palme d’Or? We will see what will decide The jury, chaired by Greta Gerwig And made up of Ebru Ceylan, Lily Gladstone, Eva Green, Nadine Labaki, Juan Antonio Bayona, Pierfrancesco Favino, Kore-Eda Hirokazu and Omar Sy, a group that symbolizes the diversity and excellence of world cinema.
A certain look: the window of diversity
The Un Certain Regard section is distinguished by its role as a springboard for young talents and singular voices. This year, Eighteen films, including eight first films, make up this selection. Cultural diversity is put in the spotlight, with stories from all over the world. This year marks a historical first with the selection of a Saudi film, Norah From Tawfik Alzaidi, illustrating the country’s growing will to promote Arab cinema on the international scene.
Arab cinema back, India in the spotlight
For this 77th edition, there is a virtual absence of Arab cinema in the various sections of the festival, with the exception of rare films, as Everybody LOVES TOUND of the Moroccan director Nabil Ayouch, projected out of competition. However, Indian cinema is shining this year. With films present in almost all sections, including in official competition, India marks a triumphant return to Cannes, A first since 1994 with the film All we imagine as light of Payal Kapadia. This focus on Indian cinema demonstrates the richness and diversity of this film industry often overlooked outside its borders. We also noticed on the red carpet, the presence of Indian stars, like actress Aishwarya Rai Bachchan.
A celebration of cinematographic heritage
The Cannes Classics section celebrates its 20th anniversary this year, Celebrating world cinematographic heritage with restored films and captivating documentaries. This section, dedicated to memory and the history of cinema, offers an eclectic selection of restored films, captivating documentaries and special events. Among the highlights, we can cite the screening of the film Napoleon seen by Abel Gance, as well as Manthan of the Indian director Shyam Benegal. Special tributes will also be paid to cinema icons such as Faye Dunaway And Elizabeth Taylor, celebrating their legendary career.
The 77th edition of the Cannes Film Festival promises to be memorable, mixing glamor, commitment and celebration of cinematographic art in all its diversity. The eyes are now turned to the Croisette, waiting to see which films and what talents will stand out and will mark the history of cinema. This year, more than ever, the Cannes Film Festival confirms its role as a global showcase for cinematographic creativity and innovation, while reaffirming its commitment to crucial social causes.
Neïla Driss
