Cannes Film Festival 2023: Key Highlights to Anticipate

The Cannes Film Festival, a pinnacle of global cinema, kicks off soon, drawing in stars and spotlighting numerous films vying for recognition. With a rich palette of directors and actors debuting new works, this year's edition promises significant moments. From Oscar contenders to poignant documentaries, fans and critics alike have much to anticipate.

This year's Cannes Film Festival is set to kick off on Tuesday, welcoming a roster of A-list Hollywood stars, including Scarlett Johansson, Jennifer Lawrence, and Tom Cruise. As one of the most prestigious events in the film circuit, Cannes regularly serves as the launchpad for films that transform into award favorites later in the season.

1. **Oscar hopefuls unveiled**
Cannes continues its tradition of spotlighting future Oscar contenders, having successfully brought attention to several films that later captured significant accolades. The competition this year is stiff, with Lynne Ramsay’s adaptation, "Die My Love,” starring Jennifer Lawrence and Robert Pattinson, expected to be a strong contender. Notably, directors must impress a jury headed by French actress Juliette Binoche.

2. **Stars-turned-directors**
Scarlett Johansson is not just attending; she's making her directorial debut with "Eleanor the Great," telling the story of an elderly woman thrust into the limelight. Similarly, Kristen Stewart presents her own directorial effort, bringing a personal memoir to the adaptation. British actor Harris Dickinson also steps behind the camera with his film "Urchin," offering a narrative focused on a homeless individual in London.

3. **Legendary names on screen**
Hollywood veteran Robert De Niro will receive the honorary Palme d’Or, while Spike Lee's latest film "Highest 2 Lowest," featuring Denzel Washington, will premiere out of competition. The film is a contemporary reimagination of a classic crime thriller, set against the backdrop of New York. Anticipation builds for the premiere of the final "Mission: Impossible" installment, potentially attended by Tom Cruise.

4. **Gaza documentaries highlight pressing issues**
Documentaries hold significant relevance this year, with one titled "Put Your Soul On Your Hand And Walk," detailing the tragic story of Palestinian photojournalist Fatima Hassouna, whose life was cut short in a recent conflict. Compelling narratives such as "Once Upon a Time In Gaza" seek to shed light on the ongoing issues in the region.

5. **#MeToo evoking awareness**
The festival's opening day may eclipse with the verdict in Gerard Depardieu's ongoing sexual assault trial, reigniting discussions around the film industry's need for systemic change regarding sexual violence. The backdrop of ongoing societal issues like this could impact conversations during the festival, amplifying the voices of advocacy alongside cinematic celebration.

As the world turns its eyes to Cannes, the blend of glitz, poignant storytelling, and pressing social commentary promises an event filled with both glamour and gravitas.