David Cronenberg arrives for the Toronto Film Critics' Association Gala, in Toronto on Monday, March 7, 2022. Cronenberg is among the Canadians heading to the 77th Cannes Film Festival next month. THE CANADIAN PRESS
Canadian filmmaker David Cronenberg is set to grace the prestigious 77th Cannes Film Festival next month, as announced by organizers on Thursday. His latest creation, "The Shrouds," is one of the 19 films vying for the coveted Palme d’Or at the renowned festival in the scenic locale of southern France, scheduled to unfold from May 14 to 25.
Cronenberg's chilling horror narrative, featuring an ensemble cast including Vincent Cassel, Diane Kruger, and Guy Pearce, delves into the tale of a high-profile entrepreneur who pioneers a controversial technology enabling individuals to monitor their departed loved ones. Anticipation surrounds the film's impending release in Canadian theaters later this year.
Another Canadian contribution gracing the Cannes stage is "Rumours," a collaborative effort from Evan Johnson, Galen Johnson, and Guy Maddin. This darkly comedic piece, featuring the acclaimed Cate Blanchett, chronicles the misadventures of several global leaders stranded in a forest while attempting to draft a collective statement at the G7 summit. Although not competing for an award, the film promises to captivate audiences with its unique premise and stellar cast.
Meanwhile, American filmmaker Paul Schrader presents "Oh Canada," a compelling narrative centered around the life of renowned documentarian Leonard Fife. Fife, an American dissenter, sought refuge in Canada to evade conscription during the Vietnam War, setting the stage for a poignant exploration of identity and exile.
Joining the illustrious lineup are noteworthy films such as Ali Abbasi's "The Apprentice," offering a glimpse into the formative years of former U.S. president Donald Trump, and Jacques Audiard's "Emilia Perez," a gripping musical thriller featuring Selena Gomez portraying a Mexican cartel leader undergoing gender confirmation surgery. These diverse narratives promise to ignite conversations and captivate audiences on the international stage of the Cannes Film Festival.
