Cannes Film Festival has long been a showcase for innovative and impactful cinema, and many of its critically acclaimed films are now available for streaming on Netflix. Here are ten noteworthy Cannes selections that you can watch tonight:
Parasite (2019)
Bong Joon-ho’s Parasite delves into themes of greed and class conflict, as the destitute Kim family schemes to infiltrate the wealthy Park household. Their initially harmonious relationship soon unravels, revealing the harsh realities and deep-seated prejudices that drive their interactions. The film’s sharp social commentary and unexpected twists make it a compelling watch.
Ave Maria (2015)
This short film, set in the West Bank, contrasts the serene life of nuns in a convent with the chaos introduced by a car accident involving Israeli settlers. The clash between the religious community and the settlers serves as a backdrop to explore themes of faith, culture, and disruption in a region marked by conflict.
I Lost My Body (2019)
A unique animated feature, I Lost My Body follows a dismembered hand on a journey through Paris to reunite with its body. Through its inventive narrative and stunning visuals, the film intertwines the hand’s adventure with flashbacks of its former owner’s life and relationships, including a significant encounter with Gabrielle.
Omar (2013)
Hany Abu-Assad’s Omar tells the story of a Palestinian baker who becomes an informant after being arrested for the murder of an Israeli soldier. As Omar navigates his dual life, the film explores themes of betrayal, loyalty, and the complexities of living under occupation.
Atlantics (2019)
In Mati Diop’s Atlantics, the story unfolds in a suburb of Dakar where Ada, engaged to another man, mourns the disappearance of her love, Souleimane, and his co-workers at sea. Their return in spectral form brings tension and demands for justice, reflecting on the impact of economic disparity and the struggle for fair wages.
Divines (2016)
This French film follows a teenager from a tough Parisian suburb who becomes involved with a drug dealer while dreaming of a better life. When she encounters a male dancer, she faces a crossroads that could lead to a new path away from her current circumstances.
Marlina the Murderer in Four Acts (2017)
Set in Indonesia, Marlina the Murderer in Four Acts tells the story of a widow who, after a violent assault, takes revenge on her attackers. Her quest for justice and redemption is complicated by the ghost of one of the men she killed, which adds a supernatural element to her journey.
Bombay Talkies (2013)
This anthology film comprises four distinct stories that explore the influence of Bollywood on various individuals. Each segment, directed by a different filmmaker, offers a unique perspective on how cinema shapes personal experiences and societal norms.
Salt of This Sea (2008)
In this drama, Soraya, a young woman whose family was displaced in 1948, returns to Palestine in search of her grandfather. Her journey highlights the ongoing impact of historical displacement and the personal quest for identity and connection.
Samouni Road (2018)
A powerful documentary, Samouni Road chronicles the lives of the Samouni family in Gaza as they prepare for a wedding amid the aftermath of conflict. The film captures the resilience of a community rebuilding after severe loss and destruction.
