In an exciting turn of events at the 77th Cannes Film Festival, the highly anticipated dark comedy “Rumours” premiered, captivating audiences and critics alike. Directed by the visionary trio Guy Maddin, Evan Johnson, and Galen Johnson, the film stars Cate Blanchett and Alicia Vikander in a story that blends political satire with supernatural elements.
“Rumours” centers around a G7 summit where world leaders find themselves lost in a fog-shrouded forest while trying to draft a statement on a global crisis. The ensemble cast, including Charles Dance as the U.S. President, Denis Ménochet as the French President, and Roy Dupuis as the Canadian Prime Minister, must navigate not only their political tensions but also bizarre encounters with undead bog bodies and a giant brain, making for a hilariously surreal experience.
Leading the cast is Cate Blanchett, who plays Hilda Ortmann, the German Chancellor. Known for her versatility and command of the screen, Blanchett is joined by Alicia Vikander as Celestine Sproul, the Secretary General of the European Commission. The film also features performances from Nikki Amuka-Bird, Rolando Ravello, Takehiro Hira, and Zlatko Burić.
The film's unique visual style is brought to life by cinematographer Stefan Ciupek, with a hauntingly beautiful score by Kristian Eidnes Andersen. Produced by Liz Jarvis, Philipp Kreuzer, and Lars Knudsen under the banners of Square Peg, Buffalo Gal Pictures, and Maze Pictures, “Rumours” promises to be a standout in 2024's film lineup.
Described as “stoopid and hilarious and wonderful” by filmmaker Ari Aster, “Rumours” combines elements of dark comedy with supernatural horror, creating a film that is both thought-provoking and wildly entertaining. The screenplay's clever satire on global politics is punctuated by the absurdity of the leaders' predicament, making it a must-see for fans of genre-bending cinema.
Premiering on May 18, 2024, at Cannes, “Rumours” has already garnered significant buzz for its bold storytelling and standout performances. Distributed by Elevation Pictures in Canada and Bleecker Street in the U.S., the film is set for a wider release later this year, ensuring that audiences worldwide can experience its unique charm.
For cinephiles and casual moviegoers alike, “Rumours” offers a fresh and imaginative take on political satire, showcasing the talents of an exceptional cast and crew. Keep an eye out for this film as it continues to make waves in the film festival circuit and beyond.
