As the stars descend upon the French Riviera, entourage in toe and paparazzi not far off, you know that the Cannes Film Festival is about to commence.
While it’s easy to get caught up in all the glitz and glamour of the A-list event with the endless parties and immaculately polished celebrities, it's the movies that are really causing a buzz, and this year the Cannes line up is pretty impressive. Here are my top 5 picks of movies which I think will be SO MAJ.
1. The Bling Ring
Sofia Coppola? Check. Emma Watson? Check. Another movie about the social commentary on the youth culture of today’s generation and our obsession with celebrities? Check. This movie has all the sentiments to be a success beyond it’s lacklustre predecessor 'Spring Breakers'.
2. As I Lay Dying
The multi-talented James Franco takes another
hand at directing, this time telling the tale of William Faulkner’s novel ‘As I
Lay Dying’. For those who haven’t read the novel, the story explores the death
of Addie Bundren and her family's quest to honour her wish to be buried in the town of Jefferson. The movie also stars Logan Marshall-Green, Danny McBride, as well as James Franco.
3. Inside Llewyn Davis
The Coen Brothers are back to redeem themselves from their tragic comedy Gambit with Inside Llewyn Davis, starring Oscar Issac, Justin Timberlake and Carey Mulligan. The film tells the tale of the troubled 1960’s folk singer (played by Oscar Issac) and the movement of folk music he navigates in 1960s New York.
4. Only God Forgives
Ryan Gosling and Nicolas Winding Refn are proving to be a winning pair originating with their 2011 critically acclaimed hit ‘Drive’. The dynamite duo are back with an equally intriguing ‘Only God Forgives’ telling the story of a drug smuggler thriving in Bangkok's criminal underworld, who’s life takes a surprisingly interesting turn. With its dazzling Thailand cinematography, shock value and exploration of the heavy underground boxing scene in Asia, this controversial (and rather violent) movie is sure to raise a few eyebrows in intrigue.
5. The Great Gatsby
The Great Gatsby is already a commercial success but is currently the subject of many mixed reviews, with many stating that the film is ‘style over substance’ with it’s 3D projections and sleek art deco direction. Nonetheless, this movie is the opening headliner at Cannes this year (premiering today) and is definitely the one to watch.
