The 76th Cannes Film Festival kicked off in style on Tuesday as filmmakers, actors, and producers converged in the French Riviera’s capital of cinema. The festival will showcase 21 movies competing for the prestigious Palme d’Or, with big-name directors like Martin Scorsese and Wes Anderson and A-list stars like Leonardo DiCaprio and Natalie Portman in attendance.
More than 2,000 people walked the red carpet at the opening ceremony, which also saw Michael Douglas receive an honorary award. Johnny Depp, a leader of the festival’s opening film, “Jeanne du Barry,” arrived to cheers and autograph requests from fans, although his appearance has been somewhat divisive off camera.
“Jeanne du Barry” is a French costume drama and Depp’s first major film since winning a bitter defamation trial last year. While many fans have hailed it as his comeback, there has also been criticism of its selection as the festival’s opening movie. The festival’s director, Thierry Frémaux, defended the choice, saying that it had nothing to do with Depp’s personal life and everything to do with his acting.
Cannes has long been considered a hub for experimental cinema, but it also provides a platform for large studio vehicles. This year, two such movies are set to premiere at the festival: “Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny” and a new Pixar film, “Elemental.”
As the festival gets underway, all eyes are on the jury, which this year is led by director Spike Lee. The jury will choose the winner of the Palme d’Or, the festival’s top prize, from among the 21 competing movies. With a lineup that includes some of the biggest names in cinema, this year’s Cannes Film Festival promises to be an exciting and memorable event.
