Standout Performances at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival
The 2025 Cannes Film Festival brought with it a vibrant mix of bold storytelling, fresh talent, and career-defining performances. For actors, aspiring artists, and creatives alike, the festival served as a masterclass in the power of presence, preparation, and performance. Here are the standout acting moments that caught the industry’s attention this year:
🌟 Renate Reinsve in Sentimental Value
Renate Reinsve delivered a poignant performance in Joachim Trier’s Sentimental Value, a Norwegian family drama that premiered in the main competition. Her portrayal of Nora, a stage actress grappling with personal loss and familial complexities, earned her critical acclaim. The film received a remarkable 19-minute standing ovation at its Cannes premiere, underscoring the emotional depth of Reinsve’s performance.
🎭 Léa Drucker in Case 137
Léa Drucker captivated audiences with her role as Stéphanie Bertrand in Dominik Moll’s Case 137, a French crime drama set against the backdrop of the yellow vest protests. Her nuanced portrayal of a police investigator navigating institutional corruption garnered praise from critics, with some highlighting her as a standout in the film’s ensemble cast.
🌈 Paul Mescal & Josh O’Connor in The History of Sound
Paul Mescal and Josh O’Connor shared the screen in The History of Sound, a gay romance that premiered in Cannes’ Un Certain Regard section. Their performances as lovers navigating the challenges of their relationship in a repressive society earned the film a six-minute standing ovation. The emotional resonance of their portrayals was a highlight of the festival.
🎥 Kristen Stewart in The Chronology of Water
Kristen Stewart’s directorial debut, The Chronology of Water, based on Lidia Yuknavitch’s memoir, was met with a six-minute standing ovation at Cannes. Stewart’s raw and intimate portrayal of the protagonist’s journey through trauma and self-discovery showcased her versatility as an actress and filmmaker.
🎞️ Jessica Lange in Echoes of Silence
Jessica Lange’s performance in Echoes of Silence earned her the Best Actress award at Cannes 2025. Her portrayal of a woman confronting her past and seeking redemption was lauded for its emotional depth and authenticity. The film’s exploration of themes of loss and reconciliation was elevated by Lange’s compelling performance.
🎬 Mahmoud Al-Fayed in Whispers of the Desert
Mahmoud Al-Fayed delivered a captivating performance in Whispers of the Desert, a film that explores the complexities of identity and belonging. His portrayal of a man caught between tradition and modernity resonated with audiences, earning him the Best Actor accolade at the festival.
Key Takeaways for Acting Students:
Embrace Emotional Honesty: Renate Reinsve’s work in Sentimental Value shows how vulnerability and authentic emotion can deeply connect with audiences.
Master Subtlety and Nuance: Léa Drucker’s portrayal in Case 137 teaches the power of understated expressions and internal conflict to build compelling characters.
Build Chemistry and Trust: The dynamic between Paul Mescal and Josh O’Connor in The History of Sound highlights how believable relationships elevate a performance.
Take Risks and Explore New Roles: Kristen Stewart’s transition to directing and acting in The Chronology of Water encourages embracing new creative challenges.
Portray Complex Characters with Depth: Jessica Lange’s award-winning role in Echoes of Silence demonstrates how to convey layered emotions and a character’s evolution.
Cultural and Identity Awareness: Mahmoud Al-Fayed’s performance in Whispers of the Desert reminds actors to explore and respect diverse identities and stories.
Commit to Character Research: Each standout actor’s performance reflects deep preparation and understanding of their roles, crucial for authenticity.
Use Film Festivals as Learning Opportunities: Watching performances from Cannes helps students study a variety of acting styles and storytelling methods.
Stay inspired.