From The Pianist to The Artist: 10 films that Cannes changed forever

From The Pianist to The Artist: 10 films that Cannes changed forever

By Entertainment Desk May 23, 2025 

Pulp Fiction (1994)

Quentin Tarantino’s bold narrative and snappy dialogue in Pulp Fiction stunned the Cannes audiences. The film won the Palme d’Or and redefined indie cinema.

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Parasite (2019)

Bong Joon-ho’s class Korean satirical drama Parasite premiered at Cannes to global acclaim. It won the Palme d’Or, then swept the Oscars.

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Blue Is the Warmest Colour (2013)

This raw coming-of-age love story made headlines as it bagged a historic Palme d’Or win for both director and lead actresses.

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The Pianist (2002)

Roman Polanski’s Holocaust drama The Pianist debuted at Cannes to a standing ovation. The film won Best Director, thus boosting Oscar momentum.

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La Dolce Vita (1960)

Fellini’s lush exploration of fame and decadence took Europe by storm. The film was an undisputed Palme d’Or winner and introduced the world to “paparazzi” culture.

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Sex, Lies, and Videotape (1989)

Steven Soderbergh’s indie drama shocked Cannes. The director was the youngest to bag the Palme d’Or at age 26.

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The Umbrellas of Cherbourg (1964)

The sung-through French musical with vibrant visuals won the Palme d’Or winner and influenced modern musicals like La La Land.

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Fahrenheit 9/11 (2004)

Michael Moore’s political documentary stirred controversy and won the Palme d’Or. It went on to become the highest-grossing documentary in history.

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Drive (2011)

Nicolas Winding Refn’s neon-noir thriller became a cult hit. It bagged the Best Director award at Cannes and also elevated Ryan Gosling to action icon status.

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The Artist (2011)

This black-and-white silent film took Cannes by surprise and won Best Actor at Cannes. It also swept the Oscars, proving that nostalgia could lead to global success.

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