As was previously mentioned, Betrand Bonello’s “The Beast” had been rejected by Cannes earlier this year.
“The Beast” was in the running for a competition slot until the bitter end, only to be tossed aside by Catherine Corsini’s “Le Retour.” Now, it’s one of the most critically acclaimed movies at Venice.
Bonello’s film has managed to garner strong word of mouth at Venice, with even some hinting at a possible Golden Lion win for the film (although I think it’s “Poor Things” to lose).
Bonello recently spoke to IndieWire and confirmed the Cannes rejection …
IndieWire: There’s a been rumor that Cannes rejected “The Beast” for its 2023 festival. Is this true?
Bertrand Bonello: It is. The best place for a film is where the film is wanted, and now we are doing, with this film, a huge fall release, so Venice, then Toronto, New York, Busan, stuff like that, so maybe it’s what’s best for the film. [Cannes] didn’t like it.
Cannes not liking “The Beast” doesn’t come as a major surprise. Bonello’s style is for acquired tastes and some of his past films had not been selected for that festival. His best film, 2017’s “Nocturama,” about eco-terrorists, was turned down by Cannes because it came too soon after the terrorist attacks in France.
Last year, Cannes had also said no to Alice Diop’s “Saint Omer,” which went on to win the Grand Jury Prize at Venice, not to mention being included in loads of critics top 10 lists.
Other Cannes rejects inside this year’s Venice lineup include Mateo Garrone’s “Io Capitano,” and Harmony Korine’s “Aggro Dr1ft.”
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