5 Must-Watch Cannes Festival Films of 2016

An In-Depth Look at the Year’s Festival Winners

This year’s Cannes Festival showcased a unique selection of films that sparked both criticism and acclaim. The festival’s victories were primarily claimed by movies that faced initial disapproval but later gained recognition. Olivier Assayas’ “Personal Shopper,” a peculiar horror film featuring Kristen Stewart, won the directing prize. The Grand Prix was awarded to Xavier Dolan’s “It’s Only the End of the World,” a film that, despite Dolan’s previous masterpieces, left audiences wanting more.

The jury seemed to favor films that delved into the existential struggles of everyday individuals. Such themes resonated strongly, and films that aligned with this trend triumphed. However, there were notable exceptions that deserved more attention than they received. Let’s explore the films that caused a stir and deserved the audience’s attention even after their wide release.

“Paterson” by Jim Jarmusch

Jim Jarmusch, a longtime Cannes favorite, presented “Paterson,” a film that meditates on the beauty found in routine. The story follows a bus driver named Paterson, played by Adam Driver, whose life is as mundane as it gets. His only escape is poetry, which he finds in the everyday moments of his life. The film is a typical Jarmusch creation: sad, gloomy, yet beautiful. Driver’s performance is particularly noteworthy, bringing depth to a character that could have easily been overlooked.

“Café Society” by Woody Allen

Woody Allen’s “Café Society” is a retro-comedy set in 1930s Hollywood. The film tells the story of a young New Yorker who moves to Los Angeles to work for his uncle, a prominent Hollywood agent. The plot is filled with love, heartbreak, and the classic Allen blend of laughter and tears. Despite initial skepticism about the casting of Jesse Eisenberg and Kristen Stewart, their performances were brilliant, capturing the essence of the era and the characters they portrayed.

“Julieta” by Pedro Almodovar

Pedro Almodovar’s “Julieta” is a powerful film centered around a strong female character. Julieta, the protagonist, faces a series of misfortunes that lead to mental disorders. The film invites viewers to explore the causes of her tragedy, presenting a poignant narrative that is both captivating and emotionally charged. Almodovar’s masterful storytelling shines through, making “Julieta” a standout film of the festival.

“Elle” by Paul Verhoeven

Paul Verhoeven’s “Elle” features a strong female character seeking revenge against a maniac who once raped her. The film is based on the novel “Oh…” by Philippe Djian and is a gripping tale of resilience and retribution. Isabelle Huppert’s performance is exceptional, bringing depth and complexity to her character. The film stands out for its bold narrative and powerful storytelling.

“The Neon Demon” by Nicolas Winding Refn

Nicolas Winding Refn’s “The Neon Demon” is a horror film that explores the dark side of the show business. The story follows a budding model who moves to Los Angeles to pursue her dreams but finds herself in a society obsessed with beauty and appearance. The film is a stark reminder of the dangers lurking beneath the glamorous surface of the entertainment industry. Despite not winning the main prize, “The Neon Demon” intrigued audiences with its unique blend of horror and glamour.

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