By Kyle Flynn

In this edition of the Golden Row, we will be going over my pre-Cannes best picture predictions, and my rundown and what I think will win the major awards at the Cannes Film Festival. 

The past three years have each netted three Best Picture nominees from Cannes. A festival that, in the grand scheme of the Oscar Race, often felt like an afterthought. It has now become one of the most important launching pads for the upcoming Academy Award Ceremony, with the past three years each producing three separate films that premiered at the film festival. 

The line-up at this Cannes Film Festival is as wonderful as always, but I will say it does feel like there is something different in the air. So here are my predictions for the 2025 Cannes Film Festival.

Palme d’Or: Alpha

After all this time, I am still bullish on Alpha. I really want Julia to get her second Palme d’Or.

Grand Prix (Runner-Up): It Was Just an Accident

I really do believe that Seed of the Sacred Fig was just the primer for what a political statement against the regime of Iran can mean, especially since Juliette Binoche has supported Jafar Panahi politically before.

Prix du Jury (Second Runner-Up): Sentimental Value

Joachim Trier has been on an incredible run, and there is more hype behind this film than most of the other films at the festival.

Prix de la mise en scene (Best Director): Bi Gan, Resurrection

It could be a masterpiece, like never before.

Prix d’interpretation féminine (Best Actress): Jenifier Lawerence, Die My Love

I would love to see Lawrence in the Oscar conversation this season. This has the potential of being one of the better films at the festival this year, and I am fully anticipating a positive reception.

Prix d’interpretation masculine (Best Actor): Aleksandr Kuznetsov, Two Prosecutors

I just have a feeling that this will be a big hit, and lawyer films always play well in the acting categories. So, taking a shot in the dark with this. 

Prix du scénario (Screenplay): Eskil Vogt, Joachim Trier | Sentimental Value

Worst Person In The World is so well written, the good will is there for this project, and I believe it can win.

With Cannes having just started, I am excited to follow along with the festival. One of my favorite things to do each year is to keep up with the length of standing ovations and reactions to movies. Thank you for reading this shorter edition of the Golden Row.