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| Lurking behind the mask and the hat: Johnny Depp as Louis XV in Cannes opener Jeanne Du Barry Photo: UniFrance |
The historical drama Jeanne Du Barry, starring Johnny Depp as Louis XV, and directed by Maïwenn will be given its world première as the opening night film of the 76th edition of the Cannes Film Festival.
The film marks Depp’s acting comeback after a three-year hiatus following his long legal battle with ex-wife Amber Heard.
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| Jeanne du Barry (Maïwenn) and Johnny Depp (Louis XV) in Jeanne Du Barry Photo: Festival de Cannes |
Maïwenn’s sixth feature, the period production revolves around the tumultuous relationship of the French king Louis XV and his lover, Jeanne du Barry (also played by Maiwenn), whom he brought into the Versailles Palace to live near him even though she wasn’t a noble. Louis XV, who was nicknamed “the beloved,” ultimately died as an unpopular king after being accused of corruption. He reigned for 59 years, the longest in the history of France after that of Louis XIV. Depp barely spoke French before the start of filming which means local audiences will be hanging on his every word.
Jeanne du Barry opens in France on the same day as the Cannes red carpet event on 16 May.
Maiwenn was previously at Cannes in 2011 with Polisse which won the Jury Prize, and in 2015 with My King which earned Emmanuelle Bercot a best actress award. Jeanne Du Barry is also expected to play in competition.
And after all the suspense the Cannes Film Festival organisers have confirmed that the Official Selection will be revealed on 13 April 13 at a media junket in Paris.
