This is not a gambling website; BETENTODDS.com is an information site that produces predictions using implied probability equations derived from an aggregate of betting companies operating legally within the jurisdictions theyâre licensed
Bet Responsibly
Date: Tuesday, May 12, 2026, to Saturday, May 23, 2026
Location: Palais des Festivals et des CongrĂšs in Cannes, France
Main Award: Palme dâOr
Website: https://www.festival-cannes.com/
The Cannes Film Festival is arguably the most prestigious film festival in the world and is part of the âBig Fiveâ alongside Venice, Berlin, Toronto, and Sundance Film Festivals.
Established in 1946, the invitation-only event has become world-respected for previewing new international films in every genre.
The exclusive festival is scheduled to return to Palais des Festivals et des CongrĂšs in Cannes, France, for its 79th edition.
As always, many films will compete for the Palme dâOr, which is the highest honor at the event and arguably the most prestigious film festival award.
The Cannes Film Festival Programs
The Cannes Film Festival is traditionally split into sections to showcase and honor various exciting new films.
The Main Competition
In-Competition
22 films typically compete for the Palme dâOr, the main competition at the festival. Every competing film is projected at the main venue, the Grand Auditorium Louis LumiĂšre, which seats over 2,300 people.
It is the highest honor at the festival and is often viewed as a precursor to Best Picture success at the Academy Awards.
Other in-competition awards include:
Un Certain Regard
The Un Certain Regard competition honors original and unique directorial debuts from emerging filmmakers. Every competing film is projected at the Salle Debussy.
Out of Competition
The award is typically presented to a major French, American, or Asian blockbuster film, which didnât compete for the Palme dâOr. Each film is projected at the Grand Auditorium Louis LumiĂšre.
The Parallel Sections
The Parallel section is typically held alongside the Official Selection at the Cannes Film Festival.
It includes the Directorsâ Fortnight that highlights new talent, exciting works from established directors, and avant-garde productions.
International Criticsâ Week recognizes emerging talent and screens first and second-time feature films from international directors. It includes special screenings and a small competition for feature films and short films.
The Parallel Events
The 79th Cannes Film Festival will host various Parallel events throughout May 2026.
The Marché du Film
The Marché du Film is arguably the busiest and largest international film market, which runs alongside the film festival. It is typically attended by thousands of top industry professionals, including buyers, distributors, and producers eager to screen films and secure lucrative deals.
Masterclasses
Many world-respected filmmakers often deliver informative masterclasses to the public.
Tributes
Internationally renowned artists will receive a tribute presentation at the Festival Trophee after their filmâs screening in May 2026.
A Producers Network
The upcoming Producers Network will offer international producers an opportunity to create international co-productions.
Exhibitions
The festival annually provides an exhibition of an artist, a cinematographic theme, or a body of work, which helps illustrate or diversify Cannesâ programme.
The Jury President
The Jury President for the 2026 Cannes Film Festival has yet to be announced, but they are likely to be revealed in late January or early February 2026.
It is one of the most prestigious roles in film, as the Jury President typically leads the Main Competition Jury during the selection of the Palme dâOr, Grand Prix, and many other awards at the festival.
It is the presidentâs role to hold private discussions and deliberations with the jury, helping them reach a consensus on the festivalâs biggest accolades.
Past presidents include American director Greta Gerwig (2024) and French actress Juliette Binoche (2025).
films
