The Cannes Film Festival kicked off its 78th edition on May 13, 2025, with a star-studded red carpet and a slate of films that promise to captivate global audiences. As the world’s most prestigious film gathering, this year’s festival, running until May 24, is already generating buzz with premieres from cinematic giants like Wes Anderson and bold debuts from stars like Scarlett Johansson. From Hollywood A-listers to indie darlings, the Croisette is alive with anticipation, despite looming concerns over U.S. tariffs on foreign films. With 22 films vying for the Palme d’Or and a jury led by Juliette Binoche, the Cannes Film Festival is poised to shape the awards season and redefine cinematic storytelling.
Opening Night Glamour at Cannes Film Festival
The festival opened with a quintessentially French flourish, showcasing Amélie Bonnin’s comedy-drama Leave One Day (Partir un Jour). The Palais des Festivals glittered as Leonardo DiCaprio presented Robert De Niro with an honorary Palme d’Or, celebrating the veteran actor’s storied career, from Taxi Driver to Mean Streets. De Niro, a Cannes jury president in 2011, called the festival a unifying force for storytellers. Meanwhile, the red carpet saw strict new rules in action—no nudity or voluminous gowns allowed—ensuring a focus on elegance and cinema. Stars like Jennifer Lawrence and Tom Cruise added to the electric atmosphere, undeterred by geopolitical tensions or Trump’s proposed 100% tariffs on international films, which have sparked heated industry debates.
Must-See Films at Cannes Film Festival 2025
This year’s lineup is a cinephile’s dream, with 21 films generating intense excitement. Here’s a snapshot of the most anticipated:
- Wes Anderson’s The Phoenician Scheme: A star-packed caper featuring Scarlett Johansson, Tom Hanks, and Benedict Cumberbatch, promising Anderson’s signature whimsy.
- Spike Lee’s Latest: Following BlacKkKlansmen, Lee returns with a new feature, shrouded in mystery but expected to provoke and inspire.
- Julia Ducournau’s Alpha: The Titane director’s follow-up explores a 13-year-old’s rebellion, hinting at her trademark visceral storytelling.
- Scarlett Johansson’s Eleanor the Great: Johansson’s directorial debut in Un Certain Regard stars June Squibb as a 90-year-old forging an unlikely friendship.
- Neeraj Ghaywan’s Homebound: An Indian gem in Un Certain Regard, backed by Martin Scorsese, with Ishan Khatter and Janhvi Kapoor.
These films, among others, underscore Cannes’ role as an Oscar launchpad, with past premieres like Anora and Parasite proving its influence.
A Global Stage Amid Challenges
Beyond the glitz, the festival faces real-world hurdles. U.S. President Donald Trump’s tariff threats have cast a shadow, with studio executives worried about the commercial viability of international films. Yet, Cannes chief Thierry Frémaux remains defiant, declaring, “Cinema always finds a way of existing and reinventing itself.” Meanwhile, festival workers under the Sous Les Écrans La Dèche movement are protesting precarious conditions, demanding inclusion in France’s unemployment insurance for entertainment workers. These tensions highlight the industry’s broader struggles, yet the festival’s spirit remains unbroken, with filmmakers from Rajasthan to Morocco showcasing diverse stories.
Indian Cinema Shines Bright
India’s presence at Cannes is stronger than ever. Neeraj Ghaywan’s Homebound joins Anupam Kher’s Tanvi the Great and Sudipto Sen’s Charak in the Un Certain Regard and market sections. Omlo, a social drama from Rajasthan, marks a historic global debut at the Cannes Film Market, while Satyajit Ray’s restored Aranyer Din Ratri graces the Classics section. Filmmaker Payal Kapadia, fresh off her 2024 Grand Prix win, serves on the jury, alongside stars like Alia Bhatt and Aishwarya Rai Bachchan gracing the red carpet. This vibrant representation signals India’s growing clout in global cinema.
Red Carpet Reinvented
The red carpet, a Cannes hallmark, is undergoing a transformation. New rules ban nudity and oversized outfits to maintain decorum and ease logistics. Gone are the days of Milla Jovovich’s sheer 1997 Gaultier dress or Bella Hadid’s 2024 see-through Saint Laurent. The festival’s fashion legacy endures, but practicality now tempers extravagance. Still, expect show-stopping looks from attendees like Nicole Kidman, who will receive the Women in Motion Award on May 18. The blend of style and substance keeps Cannes a cultural touchstone.
Why Cannes Matters in 2025
The Cannes Film Festival isn’t just a festival—it’s a cultural juggernaut. Its ability to spotlight films that resonate worldwide, from Pulp Fiction to Emilia Pérez, cements its status. This year, with 22 main competition films and a jury featuring voices from the Americas, Asia, and Africa, the festival embraces global perspectives. Juliette Binoche’s leadership as jury president, following Greta Gerwig, marks a historic two-year run of female presidents. As the closing ceremony on May 24 approaches, the Palme d’Or race will ignite debates and dreams, with films like The Phoenician Scheme and Alpha as frontrunners.
Looking Ahead
As Cannes unfolds, expect surprises. Late additions like Bi Gan’s Resurrection and Eugene Jarecki’s Julian Assange documentary The Six Billion Dollar Man hint at the festival’s knack for unexpected gems. The Cinéma de la Plage will screen restored classics like Nanni Moretti’s Palombella rossa and Charlie Chaplin’s The Gold Rush, blending nostalgia with innovation. For cinephiles, Cannes is a pilgrimage—a chance to witness cinema’s future. Whether you’re streaming the opening night on the festival’s YouTube channel or following live updates, the Croisette’s magic is undeniable. Stay tuned for the Palme d’Or winner and the stories that will define 2025’s cinematic landscape.