The 2019 Cannes Film Festival celebrated cinematic artistry across a spectrum of categories, showcasing both established masters and emerging talents. These categories offered a platform for diverse narratives, styles, and visions, making the festival a global epicenter of film.
The Heart of the Competition: Official Selection
The Official Selection is the soul of the Cannes Film Festival, comprising the most prestigious and hotly anticipated categories. This section is where the cinematic magic unfolds, presenting a curated collection of films vying for the coveted Palme d’Or.
In Competition
This is the main event. The In Competition section features films that are in contention for the Palme d’Or, the highest prize awarded at the festival. These films are judged by a distinguished jury of film industry professionals, critics, and artists. In 2019, films like Bong Joon-ho’s “Parasite” (which ultimately won the Palme d’Or) and Quentin Tarantino’s “Once Upon a Time in Hollywood” competed in this category.
Un Certain Regard
Un Certain Regard (A Certain Glance) presents films with unique visions and narratives, often showcasing emerging filmmakers and unconventional storytelling. This category highlights films that dare to push boundaries and offer fresh perspectives on the world. The films in this section often receive critical acclaim and launch the careers of rising directors. In 2019, “The Invisible Life of Eurídice Gusmão” directed by Karim Aïnouz took home the top prize.
Out of Competition
The Out of Competition section features films that are screened at the festival but are not eligible for the Palme d’Or. These films often include high-profile releases, special screenings, and films directed by established auteurs who may have previously won the Palme d’Or. They add to the festival’s prestige and offer audiences a chance to see eagerly awaited films before their general release.
Special Screenings
Special Screenings offer a platform for films that don’t necessarily fit into other categories. They might be documentaries, restored classics, or films that address important social or political issues. These screenings provide a space for diverse cinematic voices and perspectives.
Cinéfondation Selection
Cinéfondation Selection focuses on student films from film schools around the world. This category aims to discover and support emerging talent, providing a platform for aspiring filmmakers to showcase their work and gain international recognition. The jury awards prizes to the best student films.
Beyond the Official Selection: Parallel Sections
While the Official Selection is the main draw, Cannes also features several parallel sections that offer alternative perspectives and discover new voices.
Directors’ Fortnight (Quinzaine des Réalisateurs)
The Directors’ Fortnight (Quinzaine des Réalisateurs) is an independent section created by the French Directors Guild after the events of May 1968. It focuses on showcasing innovative and independent filmmaking, often featuring first-time directors and challenging narratives. This section is known for its rebellious spirit and its commitment to discovering new talent.
Critics’ Week (Semaine de la Critique)
Critics’ Week (Semaine de la Critique) is another parallel section that focuses on first and second feature films. It is organized by the French Syndicate of Film Critics and aims to discover and promote emerging talent in filmmaking. This section is known for its rigorous selection process and its commitment to showcasing innovative and original works.
FAQ: Deep Diving into Cannes Categories
FAQ 1: What are the eligibility criteria for films submitted to the In Competition category?
Films submitted In Competition must generally be feature-length (over 60 minutes), have been produced within the 12 months preceding the festival, and have not been released theatrically or on video outside their country of origin. They must also be submitted in their original language with French subtitles. Specific details can vary from year to year, so checking the official Cannes Film Festival regulations is crucial.
FAQ 2: How is the Palme d’Or winner selected?
The Palme d’Or winner is selected by a jury composed of film industry professionals, artists, and critics. The jury deliberates after viewing all the films In Competition and votes on the film that they believe best represents the art of cinema. The jury president has the deciding vote in case of a tie.
FAQ 3: What distinguishes Un Certain Regard from In Competition?
Un Certain Regard differs from In Competition in its focus. While the latter showcases films vying for the highest prize, the Palme d’Or, Un Certain Regard highlights films with unique aesthetics and narratives, often from emerging filmmakers. It’s a platform for discovering new voices and pushing cinematic boundaries.
FAQ 4: What types of films are typically shown Out of Competition?
Out of Competition films can include highly anticipated blockbusters, special screenings of significant films, or works by established directors who may have previously won the Palme d’Or. They often serve to generate buzz and excitement around the festival.
FAQ 5: How can a film student submit their work to the Cinéfondation Selection?
Students need to be currently enrolled in a film school or have completed their studies within the 18 months preceding the festival. They must submit their film through the official Cannes Film Festival website, adhering to the specific guidelines and deadlines outlined in the regulations.
FAQ 6: What is the significance of the Directors’ Fortnight?
The Directors’ Fortnight is significant as it’s an independent section dedicated to showcasing innovative and independent filmmaking. It’s known for its rebellious spirit and its commitment to discovering new talent, offering a platform for filmmakers who might not otherwise receive recognition at a major festival.
FAQ 7: What role does the Critics’ Week play in the film industry?
The Critics’ Week plays a crucial role in identifying and promoting emerging filmmakers. By focusing solely on first and second feature films, it provides a dedicated platform for showcasing new voices and perspectives in cinema. Many directors who premiere their work at Critics’ Week go on to have successful careers.
FAQ 8: Are there any awards besides the Palme d’Or given within the Official Selection?
Yes, besides the Palme d’Or, the Official Selection awards several other prestigious prizes, including the Grand Prix (second-highest prize), the Best Director award, the Best Actor award, the Best Actress award, the Best Screenplay award, and the Jury Prize.
FAQ 9: What is the Short Films Competition at Cannes?
The Short Films Competition runs concurrently with the other sections of the Cannes Film Festival. Short films from around the world compete for the Palme d’Or for Best Short Film. This competition is an important platform for showcasing the talent of emerging short filmmakers.
FAQ 10: How does Cannes support the development of future films?
Cannes supports the development of future films through initiatives like the Cinéfondation Atelier, a program that invites promising filmmakers to present their projects to potential producers and distributors. This initiative aims to help filmmakers secure funding and support for their upcoming films.
FAQ 11: What impact does Cannes have on a film’s distribution and success?
Being selected for Cannes, particularly within the In Competition or Un Certain Regard sections, can significantly boost a film’s distribution and success. The festival generates international buzz, attracting distributors, critics, and audiences, which can lead to wider theatrical releases, streaming deals, and critical acclaim. Winning an award, like the Palme d’Or, can be transformative for a film’s prospects.
FAQ 12: Where can I find a complete list of films selected for each category at the 2019 Cannes Film Festival?
A complete list of films selected for each category at the 2019 Cannes Film Festival can be found on the official Cannes Film Festival website (festival-cannes.com). The website provides detailed information about each film, including its director, cast, and synopsis.