Cannes 2025: Power Outages, Political Thrillers, and Global Triumphs Light Up the Croisette

 

The 78th Cannes Film Festival wrapped up on May 24, 2025, overcoming a regional power outage in the Alpes-Maritimes to deliver a dazzling celebration of international cinema. Despite the literal blackout, the spotlight remained firmly on a diverse and fearless lineup of films that reaffirmed Cannes as a global stage for boundary-pushing storytelling.

Top Honors: A Political Thriller Takes Center Stage

• Palme d'Or: It Was Just an Accident – Iranian director Jafar Panahi stunned audiences with this clandestinely made political thriller, a bold reflection of his ongoing struggles against censorship. The film’s critical acclaim and powerful message made it a defining winner.
  

• Grand Prix: Sentimental Value – Norwegian director Joachim Trier delivered a tender, emotionally resonant family drama that captured the jury’s hearts.
  

• Jury Prize (shared):
  

  • Sirât by Spanish auteur Oliver Laxe
    

  • Sound of Falling by German director Mascha Schilinski
    

Artistry Rewarded: Standout Individual Achievements

• Best Director: Kleber Mendonça Filho (The Secret Agent) – This Brazilian political thriller set during a military dictatorship impressed with its suspenseful direction and historical depth.
  

• Best Actor: Wagner Moura (The Secret Agent) – Moura delivered a haunting performance as a teacher caught in a web of resistance and repression.
  

• Best Actress: Nadia Melliti (The Little Sister) – A breakout performance from Melliti as a young woman exploring identity and belonging in Paris.
  

• Best Screenplay: Jean-Pierre and Luc Dardenne (Young Mothers) – The Belgian brothers continued their tradition of socially charged narratives with their moving screenplay.

Special Prize: Bi Gan (Resurrection) – The Chinese filmmaker was recognized for his experimental storytelling and poetic visuals.

New Voices, New Visions

• Caméra d'Or (Best First Feature): The President’s Cake by Hassan Hadi (Iraq) – A powerful debut film that signals a bold new voice in world cinema.
  

• Short Film Palme d'Or: I'm Glad You're Dead Now by Tawfeek Barhom (Palestine) – A gripping short that left a lasting impact on audiences and critics alike.

Un Certain Regard: Bold and Beautiful Cinema

This Cannes sidebar continued to highlight daring and original storytelling:

• Prize Winner: The Mysterious Gaze of the Flamingo by Diego Céspedes (Chile)
  

• Jury Prize: A Poet by Simón Mesa Soto (Colombia)
  

• Best Director: Arab & Tarzan Nasser for Once Upon a Time in Gaza
  

• Best Actor: Frank Dillane in Urchin
  

• Best Actress: Cleo Diára in I Only Rest in the Storm
  

• Best Screenplay: Harry Lighton for Pillion

Legends Honored

Cannes paid tribute to two titans of cinema:

• Robert De Niro and Denzel Washington received Honorary Palme d'Ors for their decades of unforgettable performances and cultural influence.

A Festival to Remember

 

The 2025 Cannes Film Festival proved that even in darkness, cinema shines brighter than ever. From subversive political dramas to stirring personal tales, this year’s lineup celebrated storytelling at its most fearless and global. Cannes once again cemented its place as the heart of world cinema—where art resists, heals, and endures.

Toulon Pride 2025: A Celebration of Love, Unity, and Equality

 

Toulon is gearing up for a powerful and joyful display of solidarity with its LGBTQIA+ community as the 2025 Marche des Fiertés (Pride March) returns on Saturday, June 14. Organized by the Collectif Fiertés Toulon (CFT), this annual event stands as a proud symbol of the city’s dedication to diversity, inclusion, and equal rights for all.

A Day to March with Pride

The march kicks off at 12:00 PM and continues into the evening until 8:00 PM, filling the streets of Toulon with vibrant colors, music, and an infectious spirit of celebration. Following last year’s turnout of around 3,000 participants, this year’s event is expected to draw even more supporters from across the region and beyond.

More than a festive gathering, the Pride March is a moment of visibility and advocacy—an invitation for everyone to stand together in support of LGBTQIA+ rights. People of all ages, backgrounds, and identities are welcome to join in this celebration of resilience, love, and community.

Quinzaine des Fiertés: Two Weeks of Pride

Leading up to the main event is the Quinzaine des Fiertés (Fortnight of Pride), a two-week program brimming with events curated by the CFT. From cultural exhibitions and film screenings to interactive workshops and public discussions, the Quinzaine is designed to spark dialogue, promote awareness, and bring people together through shared values of inclusion and respect.

Get Involved: Creativity and Community

As part of its commitment to community involvement, the CFT has launched a public contest to design the official 2025 Pride poster. Local artists and supporters are invited to submit their creative interpretations, reinforcing the spirit of collaboration and representation at the heart of Pride.

Supporters can also become members of the CFT for just €10 per year, helping fund the Pride March and related events while affirming their support for LGBTQIA+ rights in Toulon and the broader Var region.

Be Part of the Movement

Whether you're a lifelong Toulonnais or visiting the beautiful Var coast, Toulon Pride 2025 offers an opportunity to stand in solidarity, celebrate love in all its forms, and march for a future rooted in equality.

Save the date: June 14, 2025. Let's make it a day to remember.

For the latest updates, event details, or to get involved, visit the official site of the Collectif Fiertés Toulon.

Monaco Grand Prix Superyacht Charity Night with Pink Ribbon and Agenxy

 

On the eve of the Monaco Grand Prix, Pink Ribbon Monaco is joining forces with Agenxy Universe to host an exclusive charity evening aboard a private superyacht—fusing high-profile philanthropy with the glamour of one of the world’s most iconic race weekends.

Set against the vibrant backdrop of the Grand Prix, the event will spotlight breast cancer awareness, with a particular focus on lobular breast cancer, an often underdiagnosed subtype.

This invitation-only soirée will welcome distinguished guests from motorsport, fashion, and entertainment. The evening will be hosted by actor and musician Evan Ross, featuring a private performance by Grammy-nominated artist Robin Thicke. Award-winning chef Marc Forgione will oversee the gourmet experience. 

A silent auction offering rare collectibles and luxury experiences will raise funds for Pink Ribbon Monaco, with proceeds supporting breast cancer research and early detection initiatives at the Centre Hospitalier Princesse Grace (CHPG).

Under the Honorary Presidency of Princess Charlene and the leadership of President Natasha Frost-Savio and Vice President Tiffany Cromwell, Pink Ribbon Monaco continues to drive awareness and support critical medical research—locally and globally—through dynamic, high-impact events.

Glamour & Giving: Inside the 2025 amfAR Gala Cannes Auction

 

On Thursday, May 22, 2025, the 31st annual amfAR Gala Cannes returns to the legendary Hôtel du Cap-Eden-Roc in Cap d’Antibes, promising another unforgettable evening of elegance, entertainment, and impact. Set against the glittering backdrop of the Cannes Film Festival, this celebrated black-tie affair blends star power with purpose, raising vital funds for AIDS research.

A Night of Stars and Purpose

Hosted by the acclaimed actress and activist Taraji P. Henson, the evening will shine with A-list energy and charitable spirit. The iconic British band Duran Duran will headline, treating guests to an exclusive live performance ahead of their upcoming European tour.

Auction Highlights: Art, Adventure & Iconic Luxury

The evening’s heart is the much-anticipated live auction, featuring rare and luxurious offerings:

• George Condo’s “Smiling Goddess” (2025): A striking new piece by the influential contemporary artist.

• Chris Levine Portrait Sitting: A one-of-a-kind opportunity to be photographed by the artist behind the renowned portraits of Queen Elizabeth II.

• Fast X Hero Car: The Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat Widebody driven by Vin Diesel in Fast X.

• Miavana Private Island Adventure: An extravagant helicopter expedition for eight to Madagascar, courtesy of Cookson Adventures.

• Amanzoe Villa 20 Experience: A lavish four-night getaway to Greece’s premier Aman villa, complete with private helicopter transfers, gourmet cuisine, and access to a secluded beach club—valued at €350,000.

Advance bids will be accepted through 12:00 p.m. CEST on May 22, 2025. For more details or to place a bid, contact auction@amfar.org.

Couture with a Cause

Fashion takes center stage with the “From Cannes With Love” runway show, curated by fashion icon Carine Roitfeld. The show will spotlight designs from top fashion houses including Chanel, Dior, Louis Vuitton, Jacquemus, and Balenciaga, marrying style with solidarity.

Fueling the Fight Against AIDS

Since 1993, the amfAR Gala Cannes has raised more than $297 million for groundbreaking AIDS research around the globe. In 2024 alone, the gala brought in $16 million, a testament to the continued generosity and commitment of its supporters.

Join the Celebration

Ticket and table options cater to a variety of patrons, with individual seats starting at €20,822 and premium tables reaching €356,940. Attendees will enjoy seaside cocktails, gourmet dining, standout performances, and a legendary after-party to cap off the night.

To learn more or reserve your place at one of the year’s most iconic philanthropic events, visit the official amfAR Gala Cannes 2025 page.