Eagles of the Republic, directed by Tarik Saleh, follows the success of The Nile Hilton Incident and Cairo Conspiracy with a captivating story that blends humor and political intrigue. This film features a famous actor who is coerced into portraying the controversial Egyptian president, Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, in a biopic. Saleh reunites with star Fares Fares, who previously headlined the first two films, to delve into the murky connections between the regime and the film industry. The film reveals how artists are manipulated into creating state-sponsored propaganda, often leaving them with little choice in a stifling environment.
In the OUT OF COMPETITION category, Spike Lee makes a triumphant return, reuniting with Denzel Washington in a vibrant adaptation of Akira Kurosawa's 1963 classic, High and Low. Transposed to the bustling streets of New York City, this captivating thriller showcases Lee's unique vision, filled with wit and kinetic energy. The film boasts an all-star cast, including Jeffrey Wright and A$AP Rocky, who deliver stellar performances, making it a must-watch for fans of both Lee and Washington.
The History of Sound, a film in competition directed by Oliver Hermanus, stars acclaimed actors Paul Mescal and Josh O’Connor. This poignant film recounts a fleeting gay love affair set against the backdrop of World War I. Adapted from a short story by Ben Shattuck, the narrative unfolds as the two protagonists journey through the backwoods of Maine in 1919, collecting traditional folk tunes. The film captures the essence of intimacy and the emotional depth of their relationship through understated storytelling.
Iranian director Jafar Panahi returns with It Was Just an Accident, a profound exploration of the impact of political oppression on individuals. This COMPETITION film follows a group of ex-prisoners as they confront their past and suspect a man of being their former torturer. With a straightforward narrative, Panahi steers away from his usual self-reflexive style, delivering a gripping thriller that serves as a stark indictment of authoritarian power.
In the realm of French cinema, The Little Sister emerges as a striking portrayal of a Muslim teen’s lesbian awakening. Directed by Hafsia Herzi, this film stands out among numerous sexual coming-of-age narratives due to its confident storytelling and emotional depth. With a compelling performance from newcomer Nadia Melliti, the film resonates with both eroticism and a lingering sense of nostalgia, solidifying its place as an instant queer classic.
Kelly Reichardt's The Mastermind transports viewers to the 1970s, capturing the essence of that era through its visual aesthetic and narrative pacing. Josh O’Connor shines as an unemployed carpenter who orchestrates a major art theft. This heist film doesn't just focus on the crime itself but delves into the aftermath, evolving into a profound character study of struggling Americans in the face of adversity.
In the UN CERTAIN REGARD section, Akinola Davies Jr. presents My Father’s Shadow, the first Nigerian film to premiere at Cannes. This touching narrative explores the strained relationship between a father and his estranged sons during Nigeria's tumultuous 1993 presidential election. The film employs a poetic visual style that immerses viewers in the memories of children striving to comprehend their father's complexities amid political upheaval.
Richard Linklater's Nouvelle Vague offers a charming homage to the making of Jean-Luc Godard’s groundbreaking film, Breathless. With French newcomer Guillaume Marbeck portraying Godard and Zoey Deutch as leading lady Jean Seberg, the film captures the creative spirit behind one of cinema's most iconic moments. Linklater's breezy narrative style ensures the film balances humor with a deeper appreciation for film history.
Wes Anderson returns with The Phoenician Scheme, a delightful espionage comedy that showcases his trademark aesthetic. Starring Benicio del Toro as a 1950s industrialist, the film explores family dynamics as he names his estranged daughter, Liesl (played by Mia Threapleton), as his heir. With a cast featuring Michael Cera and Scarlett Johansson, Anderson infuses the story with a surprising tenderness that resonates with audiences.
In Pillion, Brit writer-director Harry Lighton tackles themes of abuse and queer romance through a unique lens. The film centers on the unexpected relationship between a stern biker, played by Alexander Skarsgard, and a shy suburban traffic warden, portrayed by Harry Melling. This bold debut navigates the complexities of love and desire within a sub/dom dynamic, proving to be both audacious and disarming.
Charlie Polinger's The Plague marks a thrilling directorial debut, set against the backdrop of a summer water polo camp. Featuring newcomers Everett Blunck and Kayo Martin, the film explores themes of power dynamics among boys, with Joel Edgerton delivering a standout performance as their coach. Polinger's clever use of horror conventions highlights the psychic terror of preteen social codes, making this film remarkably relevant in today's societal context.
Hasan Hadi's debut feature, The President’s Cake, set in 1990s Iraq, tells the story of a third grader tasked with baking a birthday cake for Saddam Hussein. With notable American filmmakers among its producers, the film combines humor and insightful commentary, offering viewers a vibrant glimpse into life during a tumultuous time, all while addressing the larger political landscape.
Chie Hayakawa's Renoir presents a moving narrative about an 11-year-old girl named Fuki, who navigates her father's cancer battle and her own loneliness. Set in 1987 suburban Tokyo, the film captures Fuki's imaginative retreats as she wanders the city, offering a tender exploration of childhood and familial struggles.
Wagner Moura makes a powerful return to Brazilian cinema in The Secret Agent, where he plays a technology expert on the run from hitmen during Brazil's repressive dictatorship. Despite its comedic elements, this film addresses the severe realities of a painful historical period, making it a highly anticipated addition to this year's film slate.
In Sentimental Value, director Joachim Trier delves into the complexities of family and memory, with a focus on a house in Oslo that holds generations of experiences. The film features a stellar cast, including Renate Reinsve and Stellan Skarsgard, and thoughtfully explores the intricate relationships between sisters and fathers and daughters, ultimately reflecting on the cost of artistic expression.
Oliver Laxe’s Sirat presents a visually stunning narrative about a father and son searching for a missing family member among a group of ravers in Morocco. This film is a meditation on grief and possibility, beautifully capturing the emotional depth of their journey in a world filled with uncertainty.
German director Mascha Schilinski's Sound of Falling is a groundbreaking work that intertwines the lives of four girls into a single cinematic experience. This innovative film transcends traditional storytelling, creating a portrait of womanhood and societal struggles that challenges the boundaries of cinema.
Ukrainian director Sergei Loznitsa's Two Prosecutors offers a gripping portrayal of a law school graduate attempting to combat corruption within the Soviet system. This atmospheric drama reflects on political injustice during the Great Purge, serving as a poignant reminder of the past while echoing contemporary issues.
In Urchin, Harris Dickinson makes his directorial debut, following the struggles of an unhoused Londoner battling addiction. Drawing inspiration from filmmakers like Mike Leigh and Ken Loach, the film balances a raw portrayal of addiction with compassion, offering a nuanced perspective on love and desire.
The Dardenne brothers return with Young Mothers, a tender ensemble film that offers insight into the lives of five working-class teenage women and their babies. This emotionally charged narrative provides an unfiltered look at their challenges and hopes, capturing the complexities of motherhood and the resilience of youth.
