Context:

The Cannes Film Festival is poised to showcase a plethora of films that could become next year's Oscar contenders, with stars like Scarlett Johansson, Jennifer Lawrence, and Tom Cruise expected to attend. Notable films in competition include Lynne Ramsay's 'Die My Love' and Wes Anderson's 'The Phoenician Scheme,' which features a star-studded cast. The festival also highlights the directorial debuts of Scarlett Johansson and Kristen Stewart, featured in the Un Certain Regard section. Documentaries such as 'Put Your Soul On Your Hand And Walk' about the late Palestinian photographer Fatima Hassouna, and 'The Six-Billion-Dollar Man' about Julian Assange, are drawing significant attention. The festival's atmosphere might be affected by external events, including the outcome of Gerard Depardieu's sexual assault trial and discussions on US tariffs on foreign films.

Dive Deeper:

• Cannes is renowned for premiering films that often become Oscar contenders, with directors like Lynne Ramsay and Wes Anderson presenting works this year. Ramsay's 'Die My Love' and Anderson's 'The Phoenician Scheme' are among the anticipated entries, showcasing prominent stars like Jennifer Lawrence and a diverse ensemble cast.

• The festival is witnessing a trend of Hollywood actors transitioning into directors, with Scarlett Johansson and Kristen Stewart debuting films in the Un Certain Regard section. Johansson's 'Eleanor the Great' and Stewart's 'The Chronology of Water' demonstrate this shift, exploring unique narratives.

• Hollywood legends such as Robert De Niro and Spike Lee are making appearances, with De Niro receiving an honorary Palme d'Or and Lee premiering 'Highest 2 Lowest' out of competition. This film, featuring Denzel Washington, offers a modern take on a classic Japanese thriller.

• Documentary films are a significant focus this year, with works like 'Put Your Soul On Your Hand And Walk' commemorating Palestinian photographer Fatima Hassouna, who died in Gaza, and 'The Six-Billion-Dollar Man' about Julian Assange, both drawing heightened interest.

• Outside the cinematic presentations, the festival may be influenced by the verdict of Gerard Depardieu's sexual assault trial and discussions surrounding US President Trump's proposed tariffs on foreign films. These issues highlight ongoing cultural and political tensions impacting the film industry.