The Cannes Film Festival has revealed its official poster(s) for the 2025 edition, paying a heartfelt tribute to the iconic French filmmaker Claude Lelouch and his timeless romantic drama A Man and A Woman (1966). The announcement, made by Deadline on X, marks a significant nod to cinematic history as the festival gears up for another year of celebrating global cinema.
The poster design draws inspiration from A Man and A Woman, a film that won the Palme d’Or at Cannes in 1966 and secured two Academy Awards for Best Foreign Language Film and Best Original Screenplay. Directed by Lelouch, the movie features a poignant love story between a widower racecar driver, played by Jean-Louis Trintignant, and a young widow, portrayed by Anouk Aimée. Known for its innovative use of color—shifting between full color, black-and-white, and sepia tones—and its evocative score by Francis Lai, the film remains a benchmark of French New Wave cinema.
This year’s poster choice reflects Cannes’ tradition of honoring cinematic milestones, as highlighted by the festival’s official website, which notes the use of iconic images from cult classics over the past two decades. The selection of A Man and A Woman also aligns with recent industry moves, such as Studiocanal’s 2023 acquisition of worldwide rights to Lelouch’s extensive catalog, underscoring the director’s enduring legacy.
Festival organizers have yet to release full details of the poster’s design, but the tribute comes at a time when Lelouch’s work continues to resonate. The film, which sold over 4.2 million tickets in France alone, is celebrated for its tender portrayal of love and loss, a theme that may resonate deeply with this year’s anticipated lineup.
As Cannes prepares for its 2025 event, the poster serves as a visual promise of a festival that blends nostalgia with innovation. Fans and filmmakers alike are eagerly awaiting further announcements, including the official selection and special screenings, which are expected to honor Lelouch’s contributions further. For now, the spotlight shines on A Man and A Woman, a cinematic jewel that continues to captivate audiences nearly six decades after its debut.
