On Tuesday, May 13, the 2025 Cannes Film Festival officially opened. The year's cinematic event, presided over by Juliette Binoche, will run until May 24. Millions of viewers watched the opening day live.
An evening hosted by Laurent Lafitte
The opening ceremony, broadcast live on France 2 and france.tv starting at 19 p.m., was hosted by Laurent Lafitte and was a vibrant affair.
Mylène Farmer and Robert De Niro in the spotlight
This year, Mylène Farmer made her grand return to the stage to perform a new song, adding a unique musical touch to the ceremony. She succeeded Zaho de Sagazan, who had captivated the audience last year. Cinema was also celebrated with Robert De Niro receiving an honorary Palme d'Or for his lifetime achievement. This prestigious award, previously bestowed upon icons like Meryl Streep, underscores the actor's enduring impact on the big screen.
Leave one day : the opening film
Following the award ceremony for De Niro, the opening film, Amélie Bonnin's Partir un jour (Leaving One Day) , was screened as a world premiere. This French drama, starring Juliette Armanet and Bastien Bouillon, explores universal themes of the search for meaning and escape. Its theatrical release in France followed immediately after this screening.
Excitement on the Croisette
From the moment the festival opens, Cannes comes alive. The restaurants and bars along the Croisette become the place to be for stars and industry professionals. Screenings multiply, and the first conversations begin between filmmakers, journalists, and festivalgoers. The excitement is palpable, and a glamorous and creative atmosphere spreads throughout the city.
A promising edition
The 78th Cannes Film Festival kicked off with an evening brimming with lights and promise. Between the presence of Mylène Farmer, Robert De Niro's award, and the screening of the opening film, this first day will be unforgettable. Cinema is once again in the spotlight, with this edition promising to be a landmark in the festival's history.
