Embarking on its 77th edition, the Cannes Film Festival commences Tuesday, gracing the stage with the announcement of Greta Gerwig’s jury and the bestowal of an honorary Palme d’Or upon the illustrious Meryl Streep. Set against the breathtaking backdrop of the French Riviera, this cinematic extravaganza promises a riveting start to its potentially turbulent journey.

Over the span of 10 days, a constellation of luminaries will grace the famed red carpet of Cannes. The inaugural night will witness the premiere of “The Second Act,” a delightful French comedy featuring Lea Seydoux, Vincent Lindon, Louis Garrel, and Raphaël Quenard. Streep’s honorary Palme will be a highlight of the opening ceremony, adding to the festivity.

In the days that follow, Cannes 2024 will unfurl the highly anticipated “Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga” by George Miller, the self-financed epic “Megalopolis” by Francis Ford Coppola, along with captivating creations from Paolo Sorrentino, Yorgos Lanthimos, Andrea Arnold, and Kevin Costner.

Yet, beneath the glitz and glamour, Cannes finds itself embroiled in off-screen drama.

The #MeToo movement has cast a shadow over the French film industry following allegations of rape and sexual abuse made by French actor Judith Godrèche against two directors. Godrèche’s poignant short film “Moi Aussi” will premiere during the festival, marking a pivotal moment.

Additionally, festival workers, disenchanted with precarious employment conditions, are on the brink of a strike, demanding stability amidst the festivities.

In a startling revelation, Iranian filmmaker Mohammed Rasoulof discloses his exile from Iran after being sentenced to a draconian eight-year prison term and flogging. His film, “The Seed of the Sacred Fig,” offers a searing critique of the Iranian regime, promising to ignite discourse.

Nevertheless, all eyes remain fixated on the celestial parade gracing Cannes’ illustrious carpet, including luminaries such as Emma Stone, Anya Taylor-Joy, Demi Moore, Selena Gomez, Nicolas Cage, and Barry Keoghan. The denouement on May 25 will see George Lucas receive an honorary Palme d’Or, marking a momentous occasion.

Undoubtedly, the 77th Cannes must rise to lofty expectations. Last year’s edition, acclaimed for its stellar lineup, yielded three Oscar best picture nominees: “Anatomy of a Fall,” “The Zone of Interest,” and “Killers of the Flower Moon.” In a bid to recapture the magic, Messi, the beloved canine star of “Anatomy of a Fall,” returns to Cannes for a series of endearing French television appearances.

A successful Cannes is paramount for France, ensuring its continued prominence on the global stage throughout the summer, leading into the French Open, the Tour de France, and culminating in the grandeur of the Paris Summer Olympics. The ascent of the Olympic flame at the Palais des Festivals on May 21 symbolizes the convergence of art, athleticism, and international acclaim.