But, by then, Bardot had already established her place in Cannes history; just like Marilyn Monroe — chosen for the poster of the festival’s 2012 edition without ever having been to France, let alone the south of it — she represented a moment in time.

This year’s Cannes Film Festival has barely started and already has been an attention-grabbing affair, from new rules for its red carpets, nerves about potential U.S. tariffs and the return of Tom Cruise.

Stars and directors from around the world are out in full force for the 78th Cannes Film Festival in Cannes, France, from May 13 to May 24, 2025.