The Cannes Film Festival is one of the most prestigious and highly anticipated events in the cinematic world, is always a barometer of the industry’s trends, talent, and innovation. It’s a dynamic showcase of emerging voices, cinematic landscapes, and bold storytelling. Here are some standout films and screenwriters to keep an eye on as Cannes 2025 takes the global stage:
1. “The Last Days of the City” – Written & Directed by Lina Al Abed
A standout entry from Palestine is Lina Al Abed’s The Last Days of the City. Known for her striking explorations of identity and memory, Al Abed’s latest work dives deep into the tumultuous political backdrop of the Middle East. The film follows a group of young activists in a city on the brink of upheaval, offering a poignant look at the intersection of personal loss and political unrest.
Al Abed’s reputation for blending historical events with deeply personal narratives will likely make The Last Days of the City a standout at Cannes 2025. Her ability to craft evocative, layered screenplays places her firmly in the “must-watch” category, and critics are already predicting her as a strong contender for the Palme d’Or.
2. “Red Echoes” – Written & Directed by Jan de Vries
Dutch filmmaker Jan de Vries has been making waves with his distinctive approach to surrealism, and Red Echoes might be his breakthrough moment on the international stage. The film is set in a near-future world where environmental collapse has sparked a mass migration crisis. A small community in the Netherlands, struggling with the psychological fallout of climate change, becomes embroiled in a strange series of events as they attempt to rebuild their lives.
De Vries’ writing, often described as haunting and dreamlike, is a compelling fusion of speculative fiction and human drama. The film’s unique blend of political commentary and psychological horror has sparked significant buzz, making it one of the most anticipated titles at Cannes 2025.
3. “The Circle of Time” – Written & Directed by Chizuko Yoshida
A significant addition to Cannes 2025 is the debut of Japanese screenwriter and director Chizuko Yoshida. Her film, The Circle of Time, is a narrative that intertwines two timelines, one set in post-war Japan and the other in a futuristic, technologically advanced society. The film explores generational trauma, cultural memory, and the cyclical nature of history.
Yoshida’s complex script has already drawn comparisons to the works of filmmakers like Akira Kurosawa and Andrei Tarkovsky, and her fresh approach to storytelling has critics excited to see how she handles the Cannes spotlight. With her delicate balance of visual storytelling and introspective dialogue, Yoshida’s work is poised to captivate the international audience at the festival.
4. “Empire of Ashes” – Written by Marco D’Angelo, Directed by Maria Giulia Ferraro
One of the most talked-about screenwriters of Cannes 2025 is Marco D’Angelo, whose script for Empire of Ashes is already generating significant buzz. Directed by Italian filmmaker Maria Giulia Ferraro, Empire of Ashes is an epic historical drama that takes place during the decline of the Roman Empire. The film’s central story focuses on a young Roman senator who is caught in the battle for power while grappling with the collapse of his world.
D’Angelo’s screenplay is a complex web of political intrigue, familial loyalty, and moral questioning, all set against the backdrop of one of the most significant periods in Western history. His ability to bring historical events to life with rich, layered dialogue has made him one of the standout screenwriters to watch at Cannes 2025. Many are speculating that Empire of Ashes could be a contender for the Best Screenplay Award, with Ferraro’s direction providing a cinematic canvas for D’Angelo’s sharp writing.
5. “The Unseen Path” – Written & Directed by Agustin Fernández
One of the festival’s rising stars, Argentine director Agustin Fernández, returns to Cannes in 2025 with his latest film, The Unseen Path. The movie follows a blind woman in Buenos Aires who embarks on a journey to find her estranged brother. Along the way, she meets people who challenge her perception of reality, forcing her to confront both external obstacles and the limitations of her own mind.
Written by Fernández and his frequent collaborator, Sofia Martinez, the screenplay is a poignant exploration of self-discovery, relationships, and resilience. The film’s minimalist yet powerful dialogue is expected to resonate deeply with audiences and critics alike. Fernández’s previous works have received rave reviews for their emotional depth and stark realism, and The Unseen Path is expected to further cement his reputation as one of the most exciting directors working in Latin American cinema today.
6. “Fallen Stars” – Written by Sofia Lange and Directed by Lina Rosenthal
Sofia Lange’s script for Fallen Stars is one of the most talked-about of the festival, drawing praise for its nuanced portrayal of fame and isolation. The film, directed by Lina Rosenthal, tells the story of a former child star who, after years of obscurity, is given a second chance at stardom. But as her past begins to catch up with her, she must confront the personal demons she’s tried to bury for years.
Lange’s writing excels in creating complex, multifaceted characters, and Fallen Stars promises to be an emotionally charged character study. Critics have already noted Lange’s ability to blend dark humor with drama, and with Rosenthal’s keen eye for visual storytelling, Fallen Stars could be a breakout hit at Cannes 2025.
With such a rich and diverse lineup, Cannes 2025 is sure to be a pivotal moment for filmmakers and audiences alike.
