Parisian cinema lovers are in for a treat as French director Pierre Salvadori kicks off the 79th Festival de Cannes with his latest film, La Vénus électrique. The premiere will take place on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, at the Grand Théâtre Lumière, immediately following the festival’s opening ceremony hosted by actress Eye Haïdara.
In a special nationwide event, the film will also be screened simultaneously in cinemas across France, allowing audiences everywhere to share in the magic of Salvadori’s signature burlesque romantic comedy.
“Cannes celebrates everything I love about cinema: direction, boldness, freedom, and filmmakers. My film embodies all the faith and love I have for my craft. I am so proud and happy that it’s kicking off the Festival!” Salvadori said.
A Return to Paris in the Roaring Twenties
Known for his highly acclaimed French comedies, Salvadori presents his 11th feature film in 34 years. La Vénus électrique marks a first in his filmography—a period fable set in bustling Paris of 1928, infused with artistic effervescence, popular entertainment, and spiritualism. True to Salvadori’s style, the film explores lies, pretense, and human vulnerabilities with a unique blend of melancholy, humor, and narrative freedom, drawing inspiration from the sophisticated comedies of Hollywood legends like Ernst Lubitsch, Billy Wilder, and Blake Edwards.
Star-Studded Cast
The film features some of the brightest talents in contemporary French cinema. Pio Marmaï, a Salvadori regular, stars alongside Anaïs Demoustier and Gilles Lellouche, reuniting fans of their previous collaborations. Vimala Pons and Gustave Kervern round out the ensemble, delivering performances that masterfully balance comedy and drama.
A Plot Full of Mischief and Romance
Set in 1928 Paris, the story follows Antoine Balestro, a painter who has lost his creative spark following his wife’s death. A chance encounter with a clever carnival worker, Suzanne—who pretends to be a psychic—leads to a series of comedic fake séances that gradually restore Antoine’s inspiration. But as Suzanne’s deception continues, unexpected romance blooms.
The cast also includes Madeleine Baudot, with the screenplay penned by Benjamin Charbit, Benoît Graffin, and Pierre Salvadori, based on an original idea by Rebecca Zlotowski and Robin Campillo.
Cannes and Beyond
La Vénus électrique follows last year’s festival opener, Leave One Day by Amélie Bonnin, and is set to delight audiences both on the Croisette and nationwide. The opening ceremony and film screening will be broadcast live on France Télévisions and Brut, with many cinemas participating in the nationwide event.
Produced by Les Films Pelléas and co-produced by multiple French and Belgian partners, the film hits theaters across France on May 12, 2026, distributed by Diaphana Distribution. International sales are handled by Goodfellas.
The 79th Festival de Cannes runs from May 12 to 23, 2026, with the official selection announced on April 9, 2026. Fans can follow live updates via the festival’s social media channels on YouTube, Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and the official website.
By: Cem Kaplan