The Cannes Film Festival kicked off its 77th edition with a bang, showcasing a lineup filled with Canadian talent. From David Cronenberg’s highly anticipated horror film “The Shrouds” to the Donald Trump biopic “The Apprentice,” Canadian filmmakers and actors are making a strong presence at the prestigious festival.
Cronenberg, known for his body horror films, is back at Cannes with “The Shrouds,” a film that he describes as a personal exploration of grief following the loss of his wife. With a star-studded cast including Guy Pearce, Vincent Cassell, Diane Kruger, and Sandrine Holt, the film is generating buzz and could potentially lead to Academy Award success for the Toronto director.
Meanwhile, the Canadian majority co-production “The Apprentice,” directed by Ali Abbasi, offers a unique take on the early years of former U.S. president Donald Trump. With Sebastian Stan portraying Trump and a supporting cast of Canadian talent, the film has the potential to make history as the first Canadian film to win the Palme d’Or.
Other Canadian entries at Cannes include Paul Schrader’s “Oh, Canada,” a film that follows a draft-dodging documentary filmmaker fleeing to Canada during the Vietnam war, and Guy Maddin’s “Rumours,” a dark comedy starring Cate Blanchett and Alicia Vikander.
With a strong Winnipeg contingent represented by filmmakers like Matthew Rankin and a lineup of short films showcasing Canadian creativity, the Canadian presence at Cannes is undeniable. As the festival unfolds, all eyes are on these Canadian films and filmmakers, hoping for success and recognition on the international stage.