Expectations were high as renowned filmmakers like Scorsese, Wim Wenders, Aki Kaurismaki, Nuri Ceylan, Koreeda, and Ken Loach showcased their latest works. Yet, to the dismay of many, some of the highly anticipated films stumbled, with the attention falling on indie talents with their mesmerizing works. It was a case of David outshining Goliath!

The festival kicked off with “Jeanne du Barry,” a film that many believed would mark Johnny Depp’s grand comeback. However, mixed reactions swirled around as rumours of director and actress Maiwenn’s misconduct and Depp’s personal life took centre stage. But guess what? Despite the controversies, the film turned out to be a blockbuster in France, winning the hearts of ten million viewers.

The Cannes Film Festival 2023 was a delightful cocktail of intellectualism, adrenaline-pumping thrills, lightweight entertainment, and, of course, stunts that would make tabloids blush. Pedro Almodovar’s short film, “Strange Way of Life,” caused such a frenzy that additional screenings had to be arranged to avoid a stampede.

Meanwhile, Sam Levinson’s HBO show, “The Idol,” faced the wrath of viewers for its lacklustre script and sexualisation of Lily-Rose Depp. Who said sex always sells? But the excitement on the streets soared as fans caught a glimpse of the legendary Harrison Ford, who graced the event for “Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny.” Oh, and let’s not forget the Honorary Palme d’Or that he shared with the one and only Michael Douglas. Hollywood legends in the flesh!

But the real frenzy erupted around Martin Scorsese’s “Killers of the Flower Moon,” with fans willing to endure endless queues for a chance to secure a seat at one of the many screenings. Starring the dynamic duo, Leonardo DiCaprio and Robert De Niro, this black comedy shed light on the heinous murders of the Osage Tribe in the 1920s. Critics even speculated that it could have easily snatched the main prize if it had competed in the festival. Talk about a killer film!

In the midst of it all, Quentin Tarantino, ever the tease, hinted that his next film, “The Movie Critic,” might just be his grand finale. Is it really the end of Tarantino’s cinematic extravaganza? Only time will tell.

And as the curtains drew to a close, the festival bid adieu with “Elemental,” a heartwarming animated film that packed a profound message. After exploring emotions, it seems that Pixar’s next endeavour revolves around the elements, as “Elemental” weaves a charming enemies-to-friends tale between a fiery go-getter and a chilled-out water dweller. Get ready for an elemental rollercoaster!

But what about the coveted main prize, the Palme d’Or? It found its way into the hands of Justine Triet for “Anatomy of a Fall.” A surprising win, indeed, considering the heavyweight competition from the likes of Nanni Moretti, Nuri Ceylan, Aki Kaurismaki, Marco Bellocchio, and Hirokazu Koreeda. This psychological thriller delves into complex human relations, as Daniel, a visually impaired boy, is forced to witness his mother, Sandra, standing trial for the mysterious death of his father. Suspenseful and thought-provoking, it snagged the ultimate honour.

Cannes ’23 was a delightful cocktail of intellectualism, adrenaline-pumping thrills, lightweight entertainment, and, of course, stunts that would make tabloids blush.

The latter half of the festival witnessed remarkable films like Jonathan Glazer’s “The Zone of Interest,” a fresh perspective on the heart-wrenching Holocaust, delving into the daily lives just beyond the concentration camps. It’s safe to say that this gem deserved the Palme d’Or itself! Instead, it settled for the Grand Prix, while Kaurismaki’s “Fallen Leaves” clinched the Jury Prize. And let’s not forget Tran Anh Hung’s “The Pot-au-Feu,” a delectable treat for food lovers that earned him the Best Director accolade. One of the strengths of Nuri Ceylan’s poetic film, “About Dry Grasses” was the lead actress, Merve Dizdar who was acknowledged with the Best Actress award. Koji Yakusho nabbed the Best Actor trophy for his role in Wim Wenders’ “Perfect Days.” And Kore-eda’s “Monster” secured the Best Screenplay honour, even if it wasn’t the festival’s crème de la crème.