The 2025 Cannes Film Festival has revealed its much-anticipated lineup, showcasing a diverse range of films from some of the biggest names in cinema. Running from May 13 to May 24, 2025, this year’s festival promises to deliver both exciting new talent and established filmmakers pushing boundaries.
Highlighted Films and Directors
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Ari Aster, known for his work on Hereditary and Midsommar, returns with his latest film "Eddington". Set in the American West during the pandemic, the film stars Joaquin Phoenix, Pedro Pascal, and Emma Stone. Fans can expect Aster’s signature blend of psychological intensity and dark themes.
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Wes Anderson is also making waves at Cannes with "The Phoenician Scheme", a quirky ensemble piece starring Benicio Del Toro. Anderson’s distinctive style of storytelling and visuals promises to be a highlight of the festival.
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Richard Linklater brings his latest work, "Nouvelle Vague", which explores the legendary French director Jean-Luc Godard and the influential French New Wave. Linklater’s film offers a fascinating look at the evolution of cinema.
Other Noteworthy Entries
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Julia Ducournau, whose Titane won the Palme d'Or in 2021, returns with "Alpha". Set in 1980s New York, the film explores the emotional journey of an 11-year-old child dealing with their parent’s AIDS diagnosis—a poignant exploration of grief and loss.
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"The History of Sound", directed by Oliver Hermanus, is another exciting entry. With a stellar cast featuring Josh O'Connor and Paul Mescal, it’s a film to watch for its gripping exploration of the human condition.
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Kelly Reichardt presents her long-awaited film "The Mastermind", a thrilling art heist drama set during the Vietnam War, which promises an intense and thought-provoking experience.
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Jean-Pierre and Luc Dardenne, renowned for their gripping dramas, bring "The Young Mother's Home", which is expected to be a compelling addition to the festival lineup.
Special Screenings and Premieres
In addition to the competition films, the Un Certain Regard section will feature the directorial debuts of Scarlett Johansson with Eleanor the Great and Harris Dickinson with Urchin. Both actors-turned-directors are bringing fresh perspectives to Cannes this year.
Cannes will also see the out-of-competition premiere of Spike Lee’s "Highest 2 Lowest", adding further star power to the event. Meanwhile, Tom Cruise will showcase Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning, sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Honors and Recognition
The festival will kick off with a special presentation to Robert De Niro, who will be awarded an honorary Palme d'Or at the opening ceremony. Juliette Binoche will take on the important role of jury president, further adding to the festival’s prestigious aura.
Major films premiering at Cannes Film Festival in May:
— DiscussingFilm (@DiscussingFilm) April 10, 2025
• Eddington (Ari Aster)
• Romeria (Carla Simon)
• Alpha (Julia Ducournau)
• Urchin (Harris Dickinson)
• The Wave (Sebastián Lelio)
• Vie Privée (Rebecca Zlotowski)
• A Simple Accident (Jafar Panahi)
• The Mastermind… pic.twitter.com/3r5OHAmQ25
Looking Ahead
With so many talented filmmakers and exciting premieres, the 2025 Cannes Film Festival is set to be another major event in the global film calendar. Many of these films are expected to be strong contenders during the awards season, continuing Cannes’ tradition of influencing the world’s most prestigious film honors.
