The 76th edition of the Cannes Film Festival kicked off in style last night, with the premiere of the highly anticipated Louis XV period drama Jeanne du Barry. As the red carpet buzzed with excitement, all eyes were on Johnny Depp, who took center stage in the film and marked his return to the spotlight after a tumultuous period in his personal life. The film, backed by the Red Sea Film Foundation, directed by Maïwenn and co-starring Depp, received a standing ovation that lasted an impressive seven minutes, captivating the audience, and has been touted as Depp’s comeback project.
Known as the most prestigious event in the film industry, the Cannes Film Festival embraces a diverse range of films from around the world. This year, the Arab world made its mark, with several films from the region. The festival’s opening film, Jeanne du Barry, saw stars Johnny Depp as King Louis XV and Maïwenn as his titular mistress. Notably, the film received partial funding from the Red Sea Film Foundation, which is backed by Saudi Arabia. The foundation, responsible for organising the Red Sea Film Festival, has actively supported international co-productions since its establishment in 2019. Through programs like the Red Sea Fund and Red Sea Lodge, it has provided vital support for approximately 170 films from the Arab world and Africa.
The film is not the only Red Sea-backed film making waves at Cannes this year. The foundation also played a crucial role in supporting other outstanding works, including Four Daughters by Tunisia’s Kaouther Ben Hania, Banel & Adama by Senegalese filmmaker Ramata-Toulaye Sy, Goodbye Julia by Sudanese director Mohamed Kordofani, The Mother of All Lies by Asmae El-Moudir from Morocco, and Hounds by Kamal Lazraq, also from Morocco.
The presence of these films highlights the growing influence and creative prowess of the Arab world’s film industry on the international stage. By fostering collaborations and supporting emerging talent, the Red Sea Film Foundation has played a pivotal role in enabling filmmakers to tell their stories and bring their visions to life.
The star-studded opening night ceremony witnessed a parade of celebrities gracing the renowned red carpet. Brie Larson, Uma Thurman, Gong Li, Elle Fanning, Naomi Campbell, Catherine Deneuve and Helen Mirren all made an appearance on the opening night of the film festival.
