Will Tom Cruise’s ‘Mission Impossible’ Dazzle Cannes and Venice?

EXCLUSIVE: As one of Europe’s premier film festivals reaches its midpoint, attention is already shifting toward the upcoming Cannes and Venice festivals, with Cannes approaching quickly.

There’s no lack of highly anticipated films in contention. According to a prominent producer we spoke to, “2025 looks particularly tough, even stronger than 2024.” Interestingly, our research revealed that several major films are opting for a fall release instead of debuting on the Croisette. This doesn’t diminish Cannes’ significance; it remains the gold standard. Both Cannes and Venice serve as crucial launchpads for cinematic successes, as evidenced by this year’s Best Picture nominees, many of which debuted at these festivals, including Cannes’ Anora and Emilia Perez, and Venice’s The Brutalist dominating awards discussions.

Before the Cannes festivities kick off, speculation abounds regarding which blockbusters might grace the Riviera, adding a touch of star power to the festival’s proceedings. Currently, Tom Cruise’s Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning appears to be a strong contender for a Cannes premiere, though no decision has been finalized. With its May 21 launch coinciding with the festival’s second week, the possibility remains open.

While certain blockbusters like Apple’s Brad Pitt F1 movie and Warner Bros’ Superman won’t be at Cannes, art-house films like Jim Jarmusch’s Father, Mother, Sister, Brother and Wes Anderson’s The Phoenician Scheme are expected to feature prominently. Anticipation surrounds newcomers like Mascha Schilinski’s The Doctor Says I’ll Be Alright, But I’m Feelin’ Blue, which may even compete for awards.

With the official lineup set to be announced in mid-April, all eyes are on Cannes, where Juliette Binoche has been appointed as the Competition jury president.

Melanie Goodfellow and Anthony D’Alessandro contributed to this report.