The 2025 Cannes Classics lineup has been unveiled, showcasing a diverse mix of documentaries and tributes, with notable highlights including a documentary on Shia LaBeouf’s acting school, a conversation with Quentin Tarantino about filmmaker George Sherman, and Mariska Hargitay’s directorial debut.
One of the standout features, “Slauson Rec,” directed by Leo Lewis O’Neil, explores LaBeouf’s unconventional free acting school launched in Los Angeles in 2018. The documentary promises to delve into the intense and controversial experiences of participants, with scenes illustrating LaBeouf’s alleged physical interactions with the theater collective. Despite this, O’Neil states that LaBeouf fully supports the film, emphasizing his pride in the accomplishments of those who participated in the workshop. LaBeouf remarked, “Together we turned a drama class into an acting company,” highlighting the positive impact the initiative had on the young actors involved.
In addition to LaBeouf’s documentary, the Cannes Classics includes a tribute to the late director David Lynch through a documentary titled “David Lynch: Welcome to Hollywood.” This film, presented by Stéphane Ghez, seeks to uncover the deeper meanings behind Lynch’s unique filmography, providing insights into his influence on both cinema and television.
Mariska Hargitay will be making her directorial debut with “My Mom Jayne,” a documentary focusing on her mother, the iconic actress Jayne Mansfield. Through personal reflections and previously unseen materials, Hargitay aims to understand and honor her mother’s complex legacy.
Other noteworthy presentations at this year’s festival include screenings celebrating classic films such as Charlie Chaplin’s “The Gold Rush” for its 100th anniversary, and a restored version of Stanley Kubrick’s “Barry Lyndon.” The festival aims to honor cinematic history while showcasing new perspectives, providing an enriching experience for attendees.
This years’ selections reflect a profound appreciation for both the historical and contemporary aspects of filmmaking, encouraging audiences to celebrate the diverse narratives and legacies that shape the film industry. As the festival approaches, there’s a sense of anticipation for these films that promise to provoke thought and evoke emotion, connecting past and present in meaningful ways.