- Jennifer Lawrence stuns in Dior Haute Couture at the Die, My Love premiere.
- Nadia Melliti delivers a captivating debut in The Little Sister, a poignant coming-of-age story.
- Kristen Stewart makes her directorial debut with The Chronology of Water.
Jennifer Lawrence made a grand reappearance at Cannes 2025, showcasing a classic Dior Haute Couture gown inspired by a 1949 design.
While Lawrence’s red carpet look received mixed reviews, Melliti’s raw, naturalistic performance was universally praised. This has established her as the festival’s breakout star.
Cannes 2025: Breakouts and Bold Comebacks
In her first leading role, Nadia Melliti has emerged as Cannes’s standout star. She delivered a performance both vulnerable and fierce in The Little Sister. Director Hafsia Herzi discovered Melliti through a photograph, and her instinctive casting has paid off. Critics unanimously praise the newcomer’s emotionally charged portrayal of a conflicted young woman.
Jennifer Lawrence, on the other hand, returned to Cannes with a striking Dior ensemble and a challenging role in Die, My Love. The film, directed by Lynne Ramsay, explores the psychological descent of a new mother. Lawrence’s performance draws comparisons to her intense turn in Mother!. Despite the film’s critical acclaim, Lawrence’s fashion choice—a Dior gown paired with casual black flip-flops—left critics divided.
Kristen Stewart’s directorial debut, The Chronology of Water, also received praise for its raw, intimate storytelling. Adapted from Lidia Yuknavitch’s memoir, the film stars Imogen Poots as a woman grappling with grief and self-discovery. Stewart’s transition from actress to filmmaker appears promising, with critics lauding her distinct, emotionally resonant style.
Ari Aster’s Eddington, featuring Joaquin Phoenix, is another Cannes entry garnering mixed reactions. The sprawling Western set during the pandemic was noted for its ambitious scope but criticized for lacking narrative cohesion.
Cannes 2025 has spotlighted both established icons like Jennifer Lawrence and fresh talent like Nadia Melliti. This reinforces the festival’s reputation as a launchpad for cinematic excellence.
“I do hope that the film helps people to better understand and to ponder on certain important issues of life.” — Nadia Melliti on The Little Sister
