The Cannes Film Festival has unveiled the official poster for its 77th edition, which is set to take place on May 14-25, and it’s a tribute to Akira Kurosawa’s 1991 film “Rhapsody in August.” A beautiful poster, which can be seen below this post.
Cannes boss Thierry Fremaux promised up to 12 films could be added. An announcement of the additional titles might come on Tuesday.
As far as what gets added to competition. An animated film is said to be one of the frontrunners, Michel Hazanavicius’ “The Most Precious of Cargoes".” This could be the fourth time the French filmmaker turns up in competition after 2011’s “The Artist,” 2014’s “The Search” and 2017’s “Redoubtable.”
There hasn’t been an animated film is Cannes competition in over 15 years, since 2008’s “Waltz With Bashir.” Cannes rarely programs animation, so this is a big deal. Hazanavicius’ film, scored by Alexandre Desplat and, is set in World War II as a French Jewish family is deported to Auschwitz. On the train to the death camp, in a desperate gesture, the father throws one of his twins out into the snow, where he's discovered by a childless Polish couple.
Meanwhile, Teodora Ana Mihai, who premiered her 2021 debut film “La Civil” in Un Certain Regard, might have her second feature, titled “Reostat,” crack the competition. It’s made a real impression on the selection committee. If I had to bet, it’ll be in competition come next Tuesday.
As for Abdellatif Kechich’s “Mektoub Canto Due,” which was rumored to have screened for Cannes last Friday — I haven’t an update when it comes to that one. Here’s hoping he gets in.
I’m sadly hearing Mike Leigh’s “Hard Truths” and Walter Salles’ “Ainda estou aqui” are now set for Venice competition. Was Leigh, again, rejected by Cannes? This would be the second time in a row that has happened. If you remember, 2018’s “Peterloo” was also rejected by Cannes only to later appear in Venice competition.
Arnaud Desplechin’s “Spectateurs” is, apparently, going to be added as a “special screening.” Meanwhile, Céline Sallette’s “Niki” could very well show up as the Un Certain Regard opener. Jessica Palud’s “Maria” is being fit into the Cannes Premiere section. Lou Ye’s COVID doc, “Two or Three Times,” is now aiming for an out of competition slot.
Also, be on the lookout for Meryl Streep to possibly get an honorary Palme d’Or on opening night. I keep hearing her team are negotiating with Cannes for that to happen.
