Fashion has found a new domain in film. With entertainment media on the rise for many a fashion House, (Tom Ford's own recalibration as a filmmaker draws to mind) there's been an accelerated focus on how ateliers can extend their creative reach in new and dynamic ways. CHANEL is another contender in the ranks, delivering yet another vanguard of creative good with its 2024 New Prize candidates.
Now joining them is Saint Laurent Productions – a new wing of the French fashion House formed in April last year. It was the first luxury House to count ‘full-fledged film production’ among its activities.
This week, Saint Laurent Productions landed three films in the selection for the 77th Cannes Film Festival in May: Emilia Perez by Jacques Audiard, starring Zoe Saldana and Selena Gomez; David Cronenberg’s The Shrouds, starring Vincent Cassel; and Parthenope, directed by Paolo Sorrentino.
What are the films about?
Emilia Perez follows the unruly tale of a lawyer aiding a cartel leader in withdrawing from a life of crime. Together, they will uncover deep-seated truths about the leader's corresponding identity with gender. Taking a different lane.
The Shrouds jumps into the future, mapping out tragedy and loss through technological breakthroughs to get to the heart of one's desires.
Closing out the selection with Parthenope is the story of one woman's interpretive biopic, clashing love with mythology.
What else has Saint Laurent Productions done?
The French fashion House's film production company has been in operation now for almost a year now (since forming in April 2023) and has already produced some standout films after making its debut at last year’s Cannes Film Festival with Jean-Luc Godard’s final film, and Pedro Almodóvar’s take on the cowboys-to-lovers tale, Strange Way of Life, starring Pedro Pascal.
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Who will be on the judging panel?
Cannes Festival organisers including director Thierry Frémaux announced the official selection for 2024.
Notable mention goes to our beloved Greta Gerwig, who will preside as judge and jury over the internationally acclaimed selection. The hierarchy is as follows: The Official Selection pulls rank as Cannes' most revered selection category, and will include the usual frock and finery of red carpet premiers, closing ceremony, and A-list intermingling. We will have to wait until May to see if Saint Laurent will take home any of the accolades.
