The opening ceremony marked the first day of what is arguably one of the most important events in the film industry, bringing together leading directors, jury members and actors for the 12-day event and the coveted Palm D’Or.
This year’s red carpet showcased some of the best in fashion, with celebrities donning their dreamiest gowns to flaunt under the Cote D’Azur sun.
Model Bella Hadid turned many heads in her satin strapless pink gown, showing off the perfect blend of elegance and sensuality.
Meanwhile, Emily Ratajkowski wore a striking slinky champagne coloured gown that stood out with her low cut neckline, high rise thigh slit and stunning bejeweled necklace.
Other notable Hollywood fashionistas on the red carpet include Elle Fanning in a decorative patterned ball gown by Vivienne Westwood, Jessica Chastain in an embellished Alexander McQueen dress, and Julianne Moore in a stunning red number by Givenchy.
Beyond the glamour of the red carpet, the opening night also gave a taste of captivating films to be shown over the next 12 days. Ismael’s Ghost, by French director Arnauld Desplechin, had the honour of being this year’s opening night film. The film features two favourite French actresses, Marion Cotillard and Charlotte Gainsbourg, and centers on a riveting drama about film-making.
Other films competing for the Palme d’Or over the next 12 days are Sofia Coppola’s The Beguiled, Todd Haynes’ Wonderstruck and Noah Baumbach’s The Meyerwitz Stories, with star studded casts including Nicole Kidman, Elle Fanning, Colin Farrell and Julianne Moore, among others.