The 2012 Cannes Film Festival was a huge success.
The international film community came together to celebrate the films and the actors who delivered them. And what a year it was for the festival! With so many incredible moments and memorable performances, it’s no wonder why people are still talking about it now.
Here’s a look at some of the biggest stories from the 2012 Cannes Film Festival.
The Winner Is…
It was a dramatic evening as the award for the 62nd Cannes Film Festival went to the Swedish film Force Majeure for best cinematography. But what was even more exciting for the fans was that the film’s star, Robert Pattinson, took the stage to accept the award on behalf of his film.
The film, which loosely translates to ‘An Act Of God’, was inspired by the real-life story of Sven Nykvist who filmed his entire life from a devastating avalanche that killed 16 people. And thus, this historical event was made into a stunning docu-drama.
The critically acclaimed film was one of the festival’s biggest crowd-pleasers, and it was great to see how much the audience enjoyed it. Director Stefan Zimbalist praised the crowd and their energy as the cameras were raised to their pinnacle to capture the moment. He added: “This has been an amazing evening, and I want to thank you for all that you’ve given us today.”
The audience gave a standing ovation as the closing credits rolled and the curtain came down on one of the most memorable nights of the festival. It’s safe to say that if you were at the cinema that night, you won’t forget the incredible moment when Pattinson came on stage to accept the award on behalf of his film.
Remembering Francois Truffaut
The festival comes to an end with a poignant moment as the audience watches an excerpt from the legendary French filmmaker Francois Truffaut’s 1964 masterpiece, ‘Jules And Jim’.
The French director’s final film was a landmark example of a director using cinematic language to explore and express the tensions and rivalries that can arise between two friends. Starring an incredible ensemble cast, it’s no wonder that this film is considered one of the greatest love stories of all time.
The 1962 film was one of the most highly anticipated titles at the festival. And it didn’t disappoint. Critically acclaimed and with a stellar cast, the film has been described as ‘part love story, part murder mystery, and part philosophy seminar’.
The intimate setting of the outdoor cinema in the shadow of the Palais des Congrès served as a fitting tribute to the director who died in 1984 at the age of 67. It was a fittingly magical moment as the film’s iconic French-language cast gave a masterclass in expressing their characters’ emotions through movement. And it was great to see so many people come together to share this experience.
The festival comes to its fitting finale as French director Jacques Despont’s 1980 masterpiece, ‘Leaving Home’, is shown. Starring the beautiful and talented Juliette Binoche, this film is an adaptation of the famous Anton Chekhov play ‘Uncle Vanya’ and Despont’s own experiences growing up. It’s a sad yet beautiful story of a father’s struggle to provide for his family as he and his wife move from Moscow to the titular village in the south of France. The film explores themes of alienation and connection, and the themes are tackled with an incredible blend of cinematic brilliance and understatement.
One of the greatest films of all time, it’s been hailed as one of the greatest films of the 20th century. And what a way to end the festival! Filmmakers, critics, and audiences have spoken: ‘Leaving Home’ is not to be missed.