As the Cannes Film Festival gears up for its annual showcase from May 14th to May 25th, attention turns to the British Film Institute (BFI) and its renowned Great 8 exhibition. Now in its seventh year, the Great 8 aims to provide a platform for emerging filmmakers, offering them the opportunity to present their work on the international stage.
The Great 8 prides itself on past success stories such as Charlotte Wells's "Aftersun," which reportedly became MUBI's highest-earning release in the UK. This year's lineup offers a diverse array of genres and storytelling styles, showcasing the emerging talent in the industry. With themes ranging from thrillers to dramas and documentaries, the selection process appears to be curated with an eye towards providing variety and representation.
The 'Great 8' selection offers something for every cinephile's palate. Here's a closer look at the featured films and filmmakers:
Brides
Director: Nadia Fall
Writer: Suhayla El-Bushra
Synopsis: Follows the journey of two 15-year-old girls, Doe and Muna, as they embark on a life-altering trip to Syria.
Bring Them Down
Director/Writer: Christopher Andrews
Synopsis: Explores the repercussions of a conflict between rival farmers, delving into themes of guilt, redemption, and the consequences of past actions.
The Fall Of Sir Douglas Weatherford
Director/Writer: Sean Dunn
Synopsis: A dark comedy that blurs the lines between history and fantasy, following the mental unraveling of a man who believes himself to be the descendant of a famous philosopher.
On Falling
Director/Writer: Laura Carreira
Synopsis: Chronicles the struggles of Aurora, a Portuguese immigrant working in a Scottish warehouse, as she grapples with loneliness and alienation in a gig economy-driven world.
The Salt Path
Director: Marianne Elliott
Writer: Rebecca Lenkiewicz
Synopsis: Based on a true story, follows a couple's journey along the rugged coastline of Cornwall, exploring themes of resilience, acceptance, and the meaning of home.
Sunlight
Director: Nina Conti
Writers: Shenoah Allen, Nina Conti
Synopsis: An unconventional comedy about two individuals on the brink of despair who find solace and romance in each other's company during a road trip.
Surviving Earth
Director/Writer: Thea Gajić
Synopsis: Based on true events, follows a Yugoslavian refugee living in the UK who must confront his traumatic past as he navigates the challenges of fatherhood and cultural identity.
Witches
Director/Writer: Elizabeth Sankey
Synopsis: A personal documentary that explores the connections between perinatal mental health illness and the historical portrayal of witches in western society.
As the Cannes Market unfolds and the spotlight shines on the Great 8 showcase, we extend our best wishes to the talented filmmakers presenting their work