The 78th Cannes Film Festival (13–24 May 2025) reaffirmed its status as a global stage for cinematic artistry and political resonance. Under the presidency of Juliette Binoche, the official jury awarded the Palme d’Or to Iranian filmmaker Jafar Panahi for It Was Just an Accident, a satirical drama inspired by stories from his time in Evin Prison. This marked Panahi’s triumphant return to Cannes after a 15-year travel ban was lifted in 2023.

Main Competition Highlights

• Grand Prix: Sentimental Value by Joachim Trier, a poignant exploration of memory and emotional inheritance.
• Jury Prize (tie): Sirât by Oliver Laxe and Sound of Falling by Mascha Schilinski, both lauded for their innovative storytelling.
• Best Director: Kleber Mendonça Filho for The Secret Agent, a gripping adaptation of Conrad’s novel.
• Best Actor: Wagner Moura for his role in The Secret Agent.
• Best Actress: Nadia Melliti for The Little Sister.
• Best Screenplay: Jean-Pierre and Luc Dardenne for Young Mothers.
• Special Award: Bi Gan’s Resurrection, recognized for its genre-blending cinematic homage.

Un Certain Regard

This section celebrated emerging voices and diverse narratives:

• Un Certain Regard Prize: The Mysterious Gaze of the Flamingo by Diego Céspedes.
• Jury Prize: A Poet by Simón Mesa Soto.
• Best Directing: Arab & Tarzan Nasser for Once Upon a Time in Gaza.
• Best Actor: Frank Dillane in Urchin.
• Best Actress: Cleo Diára in I Only Rest in the Storm.
• Best Screenplay: Harry Lighton for Pillion.

Caméra d’Or

• Best First Feature: The President’s Cake by Hasan Hadi, showcased in the Directors’ Fortnight.

Honorary Palme d’Or

• Awarded to cinematic legends Robert De Niro and Denzel Washington for their outstanding contributions to film.

Cannes 2025 stood out for its embrace of daring narratives and its celebration of filmmakers who challenge conventions. The festival not only highlighted cinematic excellence but also underscored the power of film as a medium for social commentary and artistic innovation.