The 2026 edition of the Cannes Classics section at the Festival de Cannes is set to be a profound homage to the art of filmmaking, honoring the memory of the visionary production designer Dean Tavoularis. This year’s program promises a rich tapestry of restored cinematic treasures, insightful documentaries, and compelling contemporary works, drawing esteemed guests and cinephiles from across the globe. The festival, renowned for its dedication to both groundbreaking new cinema and the preservation of cinematic history, will once again illuminate the enduring power of film through its Cannes Classics strand, running from May 12th to May 23rd, 2026.
A Legacy Honored: Dean Tavoularis and Artistic Vision
Dean Tavoularis, a titan of production design whose work graced iconic films such as "The Godfather Part II," "Apocalypse Now," and "The Outsiders," will be the central figure of remembrance for Cannes Classics 2026. His unparalleled ability to construct immersive worlds and evoke specific historical and emotional landscapes through his designs set a benchmark for the industry. The festival’s decision to dedicate this year’s section to his memory underscores the profound impact of production design on the cinematic experience and celebrates a career dedicated to visual storytelling. His influence will undoubtedly be felt as audiences engage with the meticulously restored films presented, many of which bear the indelible mark of his artistic genius.
A Constellation of Stars and Stories: Guests and Highlights
The roster of guests for Cannes Classics 2026 reads like a who’s who of cinematic excellence, reflecting the section’s prestige and its broad appeal. Among those expected to grace the festival are celebrated actors Bruce Dern and Laura Dern, whose contributions to cinema span generations. Acclaimed director Guillermo del Toro will also be a significant presence, particularly with the 4K restoration of his masterpiece, "Pan’s Labyrinth," marking the 20th anniversary of its world premiere at Cannes. Visionary filmmakers Artavazd Pelechian, Dario Argento, and Jerzy Skolimowski are also slated to attend, bringing their unique perspectives and invaluable filmographies to the festival.
Adding a contemporary edge to the program, Cannes Classics will showcase two recent films, including a documentary exploring the extraordinary life of Michèle Firk. This inclusion highlights the section’s commitment to bridging the past with the present, demonstrating that the dialogue between historical cinematic achievements and current artistic endeavors is vital for the evolution of film.
The Genesis of Cannes Classics: A Vision for Preservation
The establishment of Cannes Classics nearly two decades ago marked a pivotal moment in the festival’s commitment to safeguarding cinematic heritage. Created at a time when the burgeoning rise of digital technology was beginning to reshape the landscape of contemporary cinema and its relationship with its own memory, the section was conceived to shine a spotlight on the crucial preservation work undertaken by a global network of entities. This includes production companies, rights holders, film archives, cinematheques, and national archives. In an era of rapid technological change, Cannes Classics emerged as a vital platform to champion the efforts dedicated to ensuring that the films of yesterday remain accessible and vibrant for future generations.
An Essential Pillar of the Official Selection
Now an indispensable component of the Official Selection, Cannes Classics stands as a testament to the enduring value of film history. The section proudly presents meticulously restored prints of classic films alongside documentaries that delve into their creation, context, and impact. The vitality of restoration work is evident across continents, with a palpable resurgence in the vividness of shadows, blacks, and whites, and the resplendent colors of early cinema. This renewed appreciation for the technical and artistic nuances of historical filmmaking is a direct consequence of the dedication and expertise poured into these restoration projects.
A Journey Through Film History on the Croisette
Cannes Classics continues its vital mission to traverse the vast terrain of film history, unearthing and presenting both universally recognized masterpieces and rare cinematic gems that deserve a grand return to the big screen. This dynamic program, which artfully blends fiction and documentary screenings, will unfold across the festival’s iconic venues, including the Buñuel Theater, the Agnès Varda Theater, and the Cinema de la Plage. These screenings offer audiences an immersive experience, connecting them directly with the artistry and historical significance of the films presented.
The festival’s commitment extends beyond the theatrical experience. Cannes Classics actively supports all forms of new release for major works of the past, recognizing the diverse ways audiences engage with cinematic heritage today. This includes promoting theatrical re-releases, facilitating streaming and VOD distribution, and encouraging the production of DVD and Blu-ray editions. By placing the prestige of the world’s foremost film festival at the service of rediscovered cinema, Cannes Classics ensures that these cinematic treasures are not only preserved but also actively integrated into the contemporary cultural landscape.
The 2026 Selection: A Comprehensive Overview
The 2026 Cannes Classics selection is a rich compilation of celebrations, meticulously restored prints, and illuminating documentaries. It comprises a substantial offering of 21 feature films, 3 short films, and 6 documentaries, alongside the two significant contemporary works that underscore the section’s forward-looking approach. This diverse array ensures a comprehensive journey through film history, catering to a wide spectrum of cinematic interests.
This expansive journey through film history is a collaborative endeavor, shared with the dedicated individuals and institutions that preserve and restore our cinematic heritage. It includes film archivists, laboratories, festivals worldwide, public institutions, the 2026 festival audience, accredited Cannes Cinéphiles, educational bodies, and the vibrant young audiences participating in "3 Days in Cannes." This inclusive approach reinforces the idea that film heritage is a collective treasure, belonging to and enriched by all.
Two Contemporary Films: New Voices, Enduring Themes
Cannes Classics is delighted to introduce two recent cinematic works that resonate with the spirit of artistic exploration.
"The Golden Age" by Bérenger Thouin
- Director: Bérenger Thouin
- Year: 2026
- Runtime: 1h53
- Country: France and Italy
- Producers: GoGoGo Films, Graffiti Films, in association with Les Films de La Chapelle and Lesterfilm.
Bérenger Thouin’s debut feature, "The Golden Age," offers a compelling portrait of Jeanne Lavaur, a woman whose extraordinary life defies conventional narratives. The film chronicles her journey through the tumultuous 20th century, from a humble upbringing in her parents’ butcher shop to her aspirations of becoming a countess. Spanning periods of war, the vibrant Parisian Roaring Twenties, and the expansive landscapes of Brazil, Jeanne’s life is interwoven with historical events and marked by a passionate entanglement with two distinct lovers: Count Guillaume de Barante and the revolutionary Céleste. Shot in 2025, the film is lauded for its powerful performances by Souheila Yacoub, Vassili Schneider, and Yile Yara Vianello, and its innovative use of archival footage seamlessly blended with the narrative, reinventing the historical film genre. The screening is expected to be attended by the cast and key members of the production team, including director Bérenger Thouin and producers Carine Ruszniewski and Enrica Capra.
"A Life, A Manifesto" by Jean-Gabriel Périot
- Director: Jean-Gabriel Périot
- Year: 2026
- Runtime: 1h26
- Country: France
- Producers: Envie de Tempête, Les Films de Pierre, coproduced by ARTE France and INA. French distribution by Potemkine Films.
Jean-Gabriel Périot’s documentary feature, "A Life, A Manifesto," delves into the remarkable life of Michèle Firk, a film critic, aspiring director, and revolutionary activist who championed justice and freedom throughout her life. The film retraces the path of a woman who lived emancipated from the constraints of time, embracing her identity as a free lover devoted to cinema and revolution. The screening will be held in the presence of the film’s crew, offering an opportunity to engage with Périot’s profound exploration of Firk’s enduring legacy.
Special Screenings: A Trio of Short Films
Cannes Classics will also present an exclusive program of three recent short films, offering a glimpse into the cutting edge of contemporary short-form cinema.
"Goodnight Lamby" by Dustin Yellin
- Director: Dustin Yellin
- Year: 2026
- Runtime: 15 min
- Country: United States
- Starring: Paul Rudd, Zia Copernicus Yellin
- Producers: Primordial Soup production.
Emerging from the visual artistry of Dustin Yellin, "Goodnight Lamby" transports viewers into a dreamscape where memory and imagination converge. The narrative follows three-year-old Zia on a quest to find her missing stuffed toy, Lamby. Her journey takes her into her father’s surreal, layered sculpture, a world teeming with both peril and wonder. As Zia navigates shifting environments from oceans to outer space, she encounters challenges that test her courage and foster self-discovery. The screening will be attended by director Dustin Yellin and producer Darren Aronofsky.
"Torino Shadow" by Jia Zhang-Ke
- Director: Jia Zhang-Ke
- Year: 2026
- Runtime: 32 min
- Country: Italy and China
- Producers: Museo Nazionale del Cinema Torino, Jia Zhang-Ke Art Center. Developed as part of the Torino Encounters initiative.
Jia Zhang-Ke’s evocative short film "Torino Shadow" follows a woman’s journey from southern China to Turin, Italy, in search of her husband. An unexpected departure leaves her to confront her own identity and rediscover her passion for cinema. The screening will be attended by director Jia Zhang-Ke and lead actress Zhao Tao.
"Playground (Zamine Bazi)" by Amirhossein Shojaei
- Director: Amirhossein Shojaei
- Year: 2025
- Runtime: 15 min
- Country: Iran and France
- Producers: IRIS Film, Saeed Roustaee production.
In "Playground (Zamine Bazi)," a father abandons his young daughter at a playground, only to be consumed by immediate remorse. Upon his return, he finds a child who resembles his daughter but does not recognize him. This poignant narrative explores themes of regret and lost connection. The screening will be attended by director Amirhossein Shojaei and producer Saeed Roustaee.
Film Documentaries: Illuminating the Art of Cinema
This year’s Cannes Classics lineup features an impressive array of six documentaries dedicated to the history and craft of cinema, each offering unique insights into filmmaking and its key figures. These documentaries are eligible for the prestigious L’Œil d’Or award, presented at the Festival de Cannes.
"The Story of Documentary Film (The 70s)" by Mark Cousins
- Director: Mark Cousins
- Year: 2026
- Runtime: 1h58
- Country: United Kingdom
- Producers: Hopscotch Films. Sales by Dogwoof.
From the acclaimed filmmaker Mark Cousins, known for "The Story of Film: A New Generation" and "Women Make Film," comes this definitive exploration of documentary cinema, with a specific focus on the pivotal decade of the 1970s. The film traces the evolution of the documentary form, highlighting landmark works and uncovering hidden treasures that have helped us understand our world. Director Mark Cousins is expected to attend the screening.
"Dernsie: The Amazing Life of Bruce Dern" by Mike Mendez
- Director: Mike Mendez
- Year: 2026
- Runtime: 1h51
- Country: United States
- Producers: Stolen Lamp Pictures, Skylight Cinema, AFG Productions, Lumiere Lab.
"DERNSIE" offers an intimate and compelling portrait of Bruce Dern, a celebrated actor whose enduring career has spanned decades of Hollywood’s evolving landscape. Drawing from extensive interviews and personal archives, the film chronicles Dern’s life, marked by reinvention, loss, and artistic resilience. It serves as both a reflection on a changing Hollywood and a tribute to the artists who carry its spirit forward. The documentary particularly highlights Dern’s profound bond with his daughter, Laura Dern, a testament to shared memory, craft, and identity across generations. The screening will be attended by director Mike Mendez, actor Bruce Dern, and actress Laura Dern, alongside a notable list of interviewees including Quentin Tarantino and Alexander Payne.
"Maverick: The Epic Adventures of David Lean" by Barnaby Thompson
- Director: Barnaby Thompson
- Year: 2026
- Runtime: 1h51 (US) / 1h44 (UK)
- Country: United States and United Kingdom
- Producers: Fragile Films, Embankment Films, Assemble Media for Sky Arts.
This documentary examines the life and work of David Lean, a director renowned for his monumental cinematic achievements and his uncompromising artistic vision. The film delves into his mastery of storytelling and his personal life, which was often as complex and challenging as his grand-scale productions. Narrated by Cate Blanchett and featuring the voice of Kenneth Branagh as Lean, the documentary includes interviews with prominent contemporary filmmakers such as Wes Anderson and Alfonso Cuarón. Director Barnaby Thompson and producer/actress Cate Blanchett are scheduled to attend.
"Vittorio De Sica: Staging Life" by Francesco Zippel
- Director: Francesco Zippel
- Year: 2026
- Runtime: 1h40
- Country: Italy
- Producers: Quoiat Films, in association with Luce Cinecittà, Movimenti Production, and Sky.
Francesco Zippel’s film provides an intimate exploration of Vittorio De Sica, one of cinema’s most revered masters. Through rare archival material, family access, and testimonies from contemporary artists, the documentary illuminates De Sica’s enduring legacy and his remarkable ability to translate observed reality into universal emotion. The screening will be attended by director Francesco Zippel, producer Federica Paniccia, and grandsons Andrea and Brando De Sica.
"My Coluche" by Michel Denisot, Camille Bruere, and Julie Lazare
- Directors: Michel Denisot, Camille Bruere, and Julie Lazare
- Runtime: 1h35
- Country: France
- Producers: Bangumi production.
This documentary offers a personal perspective on the life of French comedian Coluche, as seen through the eyes of his friend, journalist Michel Denisot. The film celebrates Coluche’s significant impact on French television and comedy, highlighting his ability to connect with audiences on an emotional level. The directors will be present for the screening.
"Nostalgia for the Future" by Brecht Debackere
- Director: Brecht Debackere
- Year: 2026
- Runtime: 1h15
- Country: Belgium
- Producers: Visualantics, Seriousfilm, Cobra Films, Ghirigori.
Narrated by Charlotte Rampling, "Nostalgia for the Future" embarks on a journey into the enigmatic world of Chris Marker, the influential filmmaker known for his elusive persona and profound cinematic contributions. An archivist attempts to decipher Marker’s identity through his personal documents and film fragments, repurposing his work as a means to explore memory, identity, and the shaping of the future. Director Brecht Debackere is expected to attend.
Restored Prints: Timeless Classics Reimagined
The Cannes Classics section is renowned for its showcase of meticulously restored cinematic masterpieces, breathing new life into films that have shaped film history. This year’s selection promises a dazzling array of restored prints, presented in pristine condition for contemporary audiences.
"Pan’s Labyrinth" by Guillermo del Toro
- Director: Guillermo del Toro
- Year: 2006
- Runtime: 1h58
- Country: Mexico
- Presentation: Cineverse and Necropia.
Celebrating its 20th anniversary, Guillermo del Toro’s acclaimed fantasy drama "Pan’s Labyrinth" returns to Cannes in a stunning 4K restoration. This meticulous restoration, overseen by del Toro himself, is derived from the original 35mm negative and honors the film’s exceptional cinematography, which earned an Oscar for Guillermo Navarro. The film’s legacy, marked by over 100 awards worldwide, is celebrated with this special screening, attended by Guillermo del Toro.
"Pelechian Project (Land of the People, The Beginning, We, The Inhabitants, Seasons)" by Artavazd Pelechian
- Director: Artavazd Pelechian
- Years: 1966-1975
- Runtime: 1h30
- Countries: Armenia, Belarus, Russia
- Presentation: Coproduction Office, restored in partnership with Cineteca di Bologna under Artavazd Pelechian’s supervision.
This collection of early works by Artavazd Pelechian has undergone a comprehensive 4K restoration, with specific scans completed at the Public Television Company of Armenia and Belarusfilm. The restoration and color grading were expertly handled by L’Immagine Ritrovata laboratory. Director Artavazd Pelechian will be present for the screening.
"Sierra de Teruel (Espoir)" by André Malraux
- Director: André Malraux
- Year: 1938
- Runtime: 1h30
- Country: France
- Presentation: CNC, Library of Congress, Cinémathèque française, Grands films classiques, and André Malraux’s estate.
A significant restoration project, "Sierra de Teruel (Espoir)" has been digitized in 4K from nitrate elements by the CNC and the Library of Congress. The restoration and color grading were conducted by the CNC laboratory, with audio restoration and subtitles handled by Transperfect Media. The screening will be attended by Olivier Henrard and members of André Malraux’s family.
"Moonlighting" by Jerzy Skolimowski
- Director: Jerzy Skolimowski
- Year: 1982
- Runtime: 1h37
- Country: United Kingdom
- Presentation: mk2 Films and Goldcrest Films International.
A 4K restoration of Jerzy Skolimowski’s "Moonlighting," supervised by cinematographer Tony Pierce-Roberts, will be presented. Director Jerzy Skolimowski and producer Ewa Piaskowska are expected to attend.
"Metti una sera a cena (Love Circle)" by Giuseppe Patroni Griffi
- Director: Giuseppe Patroni Griffi
- Year: 1968
- Runtime: 2h05
- Country: Italy
- Presentation: Restored in 4K using original image and sound negatives.
Screenwriter Dario Argento will be present for the screening of this restored classic.
"Amma Ariyan (Report to Mother)" by John Abraham
- Director: John Abraham
- Year: 1986
- Runtime: 1h66
- Country: India
- Presentation: Film Heritage Foundation at L’Immagine Ritrovata laboratory.
This restoration, completed from one of the only two surviving prints, marks a significant effort to preserve this important Indian film. Shivendra Singh Dungarpur and other members of the film’s team are expected to attend.
"Farewell My Concubine" by Chen Kaige
- Director: Chen Kaige
- Year: 1993
- Runtime: 2h51
- Country: Hong Kong
- Presentation: 4K restoration.
Actress Gong Li will attend the screening of this celebrated 4K restored film.
"Man of Iron" by Andrzej Wajda
- Director: Andrzej Wajda
- Year: 1981
- Runtime: 2h33
- Country: Poland
- Presentation: Restored in 4K from the original camera negative, preserving its original aspect ratio.
The restoration of this significant Polish film ensures its historical and artistic integrity through advanced digital processes. Krystyna Janda and Allan Starski are among those expected to attend.
"Eva (Eve)" by Maria Plyta
- Director: Maria Plyta
- Year: 1953
- Runtime: 1h30
- Country: Greece
- Presentation: The Film Foundation’s World Cinema Project.
This 4K restoration by The Film Foundation and Cineteca di Bologna will be presented in the presence of Margaret Bodde and Betty-Despoina Kaklamanidou.
"The Devils" by Ken Russell
- Director: Ken Russell
- Year: 1971
- Runtime: 1h54
- Countries: United Kingdom and United States
- Presentation: New 4K restoration from the original camera negative.
Film critics Mark Kermode and Elisabeth Russell are expected to attend the screening of this controversial and visually striking film.
"The House of Angel" by Leopoldo Torre Nilsson
- Director: Leopoldo Torre Nilsson
- Year: 1957
- Runtime: 1h16
- Country: Argentina
- Presentation: Restored in 4K from original materials preserved in the Argentina Sono Film Archive.
Luis Alberto Scalella is expected to attend this screening.
"Two Women" by Vittorio De Sica
- Director: Vittorio De Sica
- Year: 1960
- Runtime: 1h41
- Countries: France and Italy
- Presentation: 4K restoration based on original image and audio negatives.
Pierre Olivier and Guido Lombardo are expected to attend.
"The Drift" by Paula Delsol
- Director: Paula Delsol
- Year: 1964
- Runtime: 1h23
- Country: France
- Presentation: Restored in 4K by the Cinémathèque française.
Élisa Fantozzi and Aurore Renaut are expected to attend.
"Pastoral Symphony" by Jean Delannoy
- Director: Jean Delannoy
- Year: 1946
- Runtime: 1h37
- Country: France
- Presentation: Restored in 4K using the original nitrate negative.
Céline Defremery is expected to attend.
"The Innocent" by Luchino Visconti
- Director: Luchino Visconti
- Year: 1976
- Runtime: 2h10
- Country: Italy
- Presentation: Restored in 4K by Fondazione Cineteca di Bologna.
Gian Luca Farinelli is expected to attend.
"The Dull-Ice Flower" by Yang Li-Kuo
- Director: Yang Li-Kuo
- Year: 1989
- Runtime: 1h40
- Country: Taiwan
- Presentation: Restored in 2K from original film elements.
Mark Lee Ping-Bing and Arthur Chu are expected to attend.
"Machine Gun Kelly" by Roger Corman
- Director: Roger Corman
- Year: 1958
- Runtime: 1h24
- Country: United States
- Presentation: Restored from original 35mm materials.
Producer Julie Corman is expected to attend.
"Seagulls Die in the Harbour" by Roland Verhavert, Rik Kuypers, Ivo Michiels
- Directors: Roland Verhavert, Rik Kuypers, Ivo Michiels
- Year: 1955
- Runtime: 1h27
- Country: Belgium
- Presentation: Restored in 4K from original negatives.
Matthias Schoenaerts and Tomas Leyers are expected to attend.
"Sugata Sanshiro" by Akira Kurosawa
- Director: Akira Kurosawa
- Year: 1943
- Runtime: 1h31
- Country: Japan
- Presentation: Digitally restored in 4K, including a restored 12-minute sequence.
Shion Komatsu and Thierry Frémaux are expected to attend.
"Tilaï" by Idrissa Ouedraogo
- Director: Idrissa Ouedraogo
- Year: 1990
- Runtime: 1h21
- Countries: Burkina Faso, Switzerland, France
- Presentation: Restored in 4K from the original negative.
Nora Ouedraogo and Silvia Voser are expected to attend.
"The Stranger" by Orson Welles
- Director: Orson Welles
- Year: 1945
- Runtime: 1h35
- Country: United States
- Presentation: 4K restoration led by Cinémathèque française and the Library of Congress.
Frédéric Bonnaud is expected to attend.
The 2026 Festival de Cannes will unfold from May 12th to May 23rd, offering a vibrant celebration of global cinema, past and present.
