How Cannes Film Festival Emerged as a Dominant Force at the Oscars

Recent years have witnessed the Cannes Film Festival transforming into a crucial launching pad for films vying for Academy Awards, cementing its role as a significant influence in Hollywood. The 2025 Oscars showcased this shift dramatically, with the film Anora winning a stunning five Oscars, including Best Picture and Best Director for Sean Baker.

A New Era in Oscar Nominations

The 2025 Oscars revealed a remarkable trend: a burgeoning number of films that debuted at Cannes are making waves in the Academy Awards sphere. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) has increasingly embraced international storytelling, exemplified by the success of Anora, which has become only the fourth film ever to win both the Palme d’Or and the Oscar for Best Picture. The success of Anora illustrates a pivotal moment for the Academy, reflecting a deeper appreciation for diverse narratives.

Historical Context: Cannes vs Venice

Traditionally, the Venice Film Festival was the Lions’ lair for films looking to gain traction for awards season. However, the past few years have seen a reversal of fortunes, with Cannes emerging as a powerhouse. Following the victory of Parasite at the 2020 Oscars, an undeniable shift occurred favoring Cannes films. With nine wins from 31 nominations at this year's Oscars—an apparent record—the festival's impact cannot be overstated. Historical figures like Bong Joon-ho and Delbert Mann have paved the way, and Cannes filmmakers are now more confident in premiering their works on the Croisette.

Highlighting Key Cannes Films

This year, alongside Anora, films like Flow, The Substance, and Emilia Pérez also saw significant recognition. The animated film Flow, a heartwarming story about a solitary cat, surprisingly defeated Disney blockbusters to clinch the Oscar for Best Animated Feature. Meanwhile, Emilia Pérez, which won accolades for Best Supporting Actress and Original Song, faced challenges due to controversy surrounding its lead actress’s past comments on social media—highlighting the complex relationship between art and artist.

Patterns of Success: The Academy's Changing Demographics

Another essential factor contributing to the rise of Cannes at the Oscars is the composition of the Academy. With a growing international voter base, more than 30% of Oscar voters now hail from outside the U.S., spotlighting a change in tastes. Films like Anora resonate not just on artistic merits but because they reflect contemporary societal themes. The Oscars are now championing films that align with evolving perspectives on race, gender, and identity.

The Future of International Cinema

With Cannes cementing its role, the question arises: What lies ahead for international cinema in the awards landscape? The diverse storytelling championed at Cannes suggests that more foreign films will transcend borders and find appreciation in American audiences. The spotlight on films from various cultures could lead to even greater representation at future Oscars, fostering a richer cinematic tapestry.

Conclusion: An Invitation to Embrace Global Stories

The triumph of Anora at the 2025 Oscars exemplifies a dynamic shift at the intersection of international cinema and Hollywood appreciation. As a digital nomad, exploring these narratives can expand your understanding of global cultures through the unique lens of cinema. Pay attention to the forthcoming Cannes Film Festival, which promises to unveil more compelling stories that could resonate across continents.

To further explore the world of international cinema, delve into the latest films featured at Cannes and discover stories that could inspire your own journey.