It’s hard to believe a year has gone by already. But for me that’s a great thing, as it’s time to dive head-first in to the new delights the Cannes Film Festival has to offer. And this year marks the grandest festival of them all’s 70th birthday!
I love Cannes. Not just for the film, food, sunshine, beaches, and glittering red carpet. This really is grand-daddy of all festivals and has a vibe that just can’t be replicated anywhere else. There’s just something very special about attending – it feels like an honour. You’re part of history and are witnessing more history in the making.
Aside from the films, Cannes for me is also about catching up with friends… good friends who are as passionate about films (often more so) than I. I love hearing about the films they seen, or the films they’re working on, of the inside goss they can’t wait for you to know. It’s great to experience Cannes with them – it wouldn’t be the same without it.
My friends’ opinions are divided about this year’s 70th Anniversary line-up. Some say it’s disappointing. Others quite the opposite. I’m definitely in the later camp. I’ve circled more this year than last. Regardless of which camp I’m in, for me Cannes (as with any festival) is about finding those hidden gems; films that you just can help but rave to others about …“You have to see this movie”.
But before I discover those gems, here’s what I’m most looking forward to seeing at Cannes this year, which opens in two days time…
Wind River:
From Taylor Sheridan, the writer of my favourite film last year: Hell of High Water. Jeremy Renner and Elizabeth Olsen star – can’t wait to see that combo on screen in a non-Marvel project.
You Were Never Really Here:
Lynne Ramsay … need I say more. If you haven’t seen We Need to Talk about Kevin yet … you definitely should.
Okja:
Very excited to see what Bong Joon-ho (The Host, Snowpiercer) has in store for us.
Loveless:
After the stunning Leviathan, hopes are high for Andrey Zvyagintsev next film.
The Killing of a Sacred Deer:
The Lobster captured our attention, what cinematic treat does Yorgos Lanthimos has for us this year.
Blade of the Immortal:
Takashi Miike and Samurai. Nuff said.
The Meyerowitz Stories:
Love me some Noah Baumbach. And that cast is to die for. Hope I get into the press conference.