The Cannes Film Festival, one of the most prestigious events in world cinema, returned in 2024 with its signature blend of glamour, artistry, and international talent. Held annually in the picturesque coastal city of Cannes, France, the festival once again proved to be a beacon for filmmakers and cinephiles alike. Now in its 77th edition, the festival—held from May 14 to 25—offered a powerful lineup that spanned genres, cultures, and perspectives. It was a showcase of cinematic excellence that drew standing ovations, sparked sharp critiques, and reminded the world of the enduring magic of the big screen.

A Legacy of Resistance and Artistry

Founded in 1946, Cannes has grown to become one of the “Big Three” European film festivals, alongside Venice and Berlin, and is part of the globally renowned “Big Five,” which includes Toronto and Sundance.

Its origins are rooted in resistance: proposed in 1938 by French Minister of National Education Jean Zay, historian Philippe Erlanger, and film journalist Robert Favre Le Bret, Cannes was envisioned as a response to the political interference tainting the Venice Film Festival. The tipping point came when Italian dictator Benito Mussolini intervened in 1937 to prevent the French anti-war classic La Grande Illusion from winning. Though delayed by World War II, the festival was finally inaugurated in 1946—and has since become a powerful platform for cultural dialogue and cinematic innovation.

Spotlight on the 2024 Winners

This year’s edition of Cannes lived up to its storied reputation, with a strong focus on bold narratives, socially conscious storytelling, and artistic risk-taking.

Palme d’Or: Anora by Sean Baker

The festival’s highest honor, the Palme d’Or, went to Anora, directed by Sean Baker. Known for his gritty yet empathetic storytelling, Baker delivered a captivating tale about a sex worker who marries the son of a wealthy Russian oligarch. Mixing humor with poignant moments, the film delves into themes of class, identity, and agency. In a heartfelt acceptance speech, Baker dedicated the award to sex workers around the world and praised the importance of preserving theatrical cinema in the streaming era.

Grand Prix: All We Imagine as Light by Payal Kapadia

Indian filmmaker Payal Kapadia took home the Grand Prix, the festival’s second-highest honor, for All We Imagine as Light. Set against the vibrant backdrop of Mumbai, the film follows two nurses who embark on a transformative journey to a serene beach town. Through intimate storytelling, Kapadia explores themes of female friendship, personal freedom, and emotional healing. Her win marked a milestone for Indian cinema, bringing new global attention to its rich storytelling traditions.

Bold Risks and Controversial Premieres

As always, Cannes 2024 wasn’t without its polarizing moments. Legendary director Francis Ford Coppola’s long-anticipated Megalopolis sparked intense debate. While some praised it as a bold cinematic experiment, others found it disjointed and chaotic. In contrast, Yorgos Lanthimos’ Kinds of Kindness received critical acclaim, particularly for Jesse Plemons’ captivating performance, which earned him the Best Actor award. Jacques Audiard’s Emilia Pérez—a vibrant musical thriller—won the Special Jury Prize. Its female ensemble, featuring Selena Gomez, Karla Sofía Gascón, Zoe Saldaña, and Adriana Paz, was collectively awarded Best Actress, a rare but well-deserved collective honor.

Celebrating Craft and Vision

Several other standout works and talents were also recognized:

• Best Director: Miguel Gomes for Grand Tour, praised for its lyrical narrative and rich visual language.
• Best Screenplay: Coralie Fargeat for The Substance, a daring feminist body horror that captivated audiences with its bold message and genre-bending style.
• Un Certain Regard Prize: Black Dog by Guan Hu, a touching story of redemption and companionship between an ex-convict and a stray dog in a desolate town.

A Triumph of Storytelling

The 2024 Cannes Film Festival was more than a celebration of cinematic achievement—it was a vibrant testament to the evolving power of storytelling. With its mix of fresh talent and veteran auteurs, Cannes reaffirmed its role as both a mirror and molder of global culture. In a time marked by digital disruption and social change, the films of Cannes 2024 reminded audiences that cinema continues to be one of humanity’s most profound tools for understanding, empathy, and transformation.