Palme d’Or Winner: “Anora”
Sean Baker’s “Anora” has clinched the prestigious Palme d’Or at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival. This adventurous comedy-drama, filmed in New York and Las Vegas, follows the life of a sex worker navigating various challenges. Baker’s return to Cannes after his 2021 entry “Red Rocket” has been met with critical acclaim, solidifying his place in the festival’s history【11†source】【13†source】.

Top Contenders and Buzziest Films

1. “Megalopolis” by Francis Ford Coppola

Two-time Palme d’Or winner Francis Ford Coppola is back with “Megalopolis,” a self-funded $120 million epic. The film, starring Adam Driver and featuring an ensemble cast, revolves around an architect’s ambitious plan to rebuild New York City after a dystopian catastrophe. This project, influenced by H.G. Wells and Roman Empire conspiracies, marks Coppola’s return to directing after more than a decade【11†source】.

2. “Emilia Perez” by Jacques Audiard

Jacques Audiard’s “Emilia Perez,” a musical crime comedy, features a Mexican cartel head undergoing sex reassignment surgery to evade the authorities. Starring Karla Sofia Gascón, Selena Gomez, and Zoe Saldaña, the film is noted for its unique storyline and Audiard’s history of Cannes success【10†source】.

3. “The Seed of the Sacred Fig” by Mohammad Rasoulof

Despite political challenges, Mohammad Rasoulof’s “The Seed of the Sacred Fig” has garnered significant attention. The film delves into the life of a judge in Tehran during nationwide protests. Rasoulof’s absence at Cannes due to his imprisonment highlights the ongoing repression in Iran, making this film a poignant and politically charged entry【11†source】【12†source】.

4. “Bird” by Andrea Arnold

Andrea Arnold’s “Bird” tells the story of marginalized characters in the UK, featuring Barry Keoghan and Franz Rogowski. Arnold, known for her innovative filmmaking, aims for another golden win with this deeply human and mysterious narrative【11†source】.

5. “Kinds of Kindness” by Yorgos Lanthimos

Yorgos Lanthimos’ “Kinds of Kindness,” featuring Emma Stone and Jesse Plemons, is an anthology picture with surreal and dark comedic elements. Lanthimos’ return to Cannes with his regular collaborator promises another unconventional masterpiece from the Greek Weird Wave director【11†source】.

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