As the 2025 Cannes Film Festival unfolds, Whitewall has handpicked a series of thought-provoking films that not only captivate audiences with their visual and narrative artistry but also engage with deeper societal, emotional, and technological themes. These films provide an intersection of cinema and contemporary culture, offering rich material for critical reflection.
Eddington by Ari Aster
Eddington.
In a world where technology increasingly intertwines with human nature, Eddington explores the profound impact modern technology has on our emotional lives and societal structures. Through its conceptual approach, the film delves into the complexities of human relationships with technology—questioning the ways it shapes our behaviors, desires, and identities. This film stands out not only for its technological commentary but also for its emotional depth, making it a must-watch for those interested in the intersection of modernity and the human psyche.
Alpha by Julia Ducournau
“Alpha,” 2025, Courtesy of IMDB.
Ducournau’s Alpha is an exploration of survival, leadership, and identity set against a dystopian backdrop. It is a meditation on the resilience of the human spirit in the face of adversity. The film weaves timeless themes of human nature into a hauntingly artistic narrative. Ducournau’s visual storytelling invites us to reflect on the human condition through a lens that is both intimate and universal. The film provides an artistic entry point for considering how individuals carve out identities and forge survival paths in a world on the brink of collapse—a theme that resonates deeply with today’s global challenges.
Die, My Love by Lynne Ramsay
“Die, My Love,” 2025, Courtesy of IMDB.
Emotionally charged and profoundly introspective, Die My Love examines the intricacies of love, grief, and self-identity. Ramsay’s narrative is one that digs beneath the surface, pushing the boundaries of emotional storytelling. The film invites audiences to reflect on personal loss, the nature of relationships, and the paths to self-discovery. For those who appreciate complex, character-driven narratives, Die My Love offers a raw portrayal of the human condition that is both moving and intellectually stimulating.
Sentimental Value by Joachim Trier
“Sentimental Value,” 2025, Courtesy of Variety.
Joachim Trier’s Sentimental Value is a poignant exploration of memory, nostalgia, and the passage of time. The film’s intricate handling of intangible aspects of human life focus on exploring the emotional and ephemeral nature of human experience. The concept of memory as both personal and collective is a theme that plays a critical role in cultural and artistic conversations. This film provides a beautiful meditation on how we hold on to what is most precious to us, even as time inevitably moves forward.
Sound of Falling by Mascha Schilinski
“Sound of Falling,” 2025, Courtesy of IndieWire.
In Sound of Falling, Mascha Schilinski crafts a haunting and atmospheric journey through themes of loss, sound, and grief. The film’s delicate handling of these profound emotions creates a space for reflection on how we process pain and connect with our surroundings in times of hardship. Sound of Falling offers a visual and auditory experience that is both immersive and evocative, turning grief into a sensory exploration.
The Phoenician Scheme by Wes Anderson
“The Phoenician Scheme,” 2025, Courtesy of Pitchfork.
Wes Anderson’s films are a delightful blend of aesthetic beauty and whimsical storytelling. In The Phoenician Scheme, Anderson’s signature visual style is combined with his playful narrative structure, creating an atmosphere of artistic exploration. The film delves into themes of design, creativity, and the human tendency to seek meaning in the world around us. Anderson’s unique ability to merge art and cinema makes this film a compelling choice for those who have an eye for detail and appreciate the intricate relationships between art, design, and storytelling.
Nouvelle Vague by Richard Linklater
“Nouvelle Vague,” 2025, Courtesy of IMDB.
Linklater’s Nouvelle Vague offers a masterful exploration of cinematic history through the lens of the French New Wave. This film is not only a reflection on the evolution of film as an art form but also a celebration of the cultural movements that have shaped modern cinema. Linklater’s meta-cinematic approach invites viewers to consider how past film styles inform contemporary storytelling, making this an essential watch for those interested in both film history and its artistic implications today.
The Mastermind by Kelly Reichardt
“The Mastermind,” 2025, Courtesy of Deadline.
Reichardt’s The Mastermind is a thrilling art-heist drama that delves into human desires, ambitions, and the complexities of morality. Reichardt, known for her character-driven narratives, brings a layered and intense look at the lengths to which individuals will go for personal gain. Those who appreciate films that engage with human motivations and visual storytelling will find The Mastermind to be an engrossing examination of human nature in its most calculated and raw form.
The History of Sound by Oliver Hermanus
“The History of Sound,” 2025, Courtesy of MUBI.
The History of Sound is a fascinating exploration of sound’s role in narrative filmmaking. Hermanus uses sound not just as an auditory experience but as a crucial part of the storytelling process. This film invites those interested in the technical artistry of cinema, to delve into how sound shapes emotion, atmosphere, and character. It’s an ideal film for those who seek a deeper understanding of the sensory dimensions of filmmaking.
The Chronology of Water by Kristen Stewart
“The Chronology of Water,” 2025, Courtesy of Variety.
Kristen Stewart’s directorial debut, The Chronology of Water, is an introspective look at identity, memory, and personal transformation. Stewart’s poetic narrative and keen eye for detail provide an intimate portrayal of the inner workings of the human psyche. Those with an appreciation for nuanced storytelling and emotional depth will find this film a captivating exploration of the self, and its journey through water—a universal symbol of change and fluidity.
These 10 films selected from the Cannes Film Festival 2025 embody artistic expression, cultural discourse, and an unflinching look at the human condition. Whether exploring the impact of technology, the intricacies of memory, or the raw depths of emotional pain, these films invite viewers to reflect on their own lives and the world around them. As cinema continues to evolve as an art form, these films provide the perfect canvas to engage with the multifaceted layers of contemporary culture.
