Festival de Cannes Unveils Official Poster for 2026 Edition

The Cannes Film Festival has officially revealed the poster for its 2026 edition, paying tribute to one of cinema’s most iconic duos. The 79th Festival will take place from May 12 to May 23, 2026, bringing the global film community back to the Croisette for its annual celebration of storytelling and artistry.

This year’s poster revisits Thelma & Louise, marking 35 years since its premiere in Cannes on May 20, 1991. Directed by Ridley Scott, the film remains a landmark in cinematic history, celebrated for redefining the road movie through a bold, female-driven narrative.

The striking black-and-white image captures the enduring spirit of its heroines. Louise, poised and self-assured in a white tank top, meets the viewer with a defiant gaze, while Thelma, sunglasses on, looks toward the horizon. Seated in their 1966 Ford Thunderbird convertible under the Arkansas sun, the pair embody both escape and empowerment—fleeing societal constraints to forge their own path.

Originally written by Callie Khouri and brought to life by unforgettable performances from Geena Davis and Susan Sarandon, the film challenged conventions upon its release. Its themes—freedom, friendship, and the fight for autonomy—sparked debate in 1991 and continue to resonate powerfully today.

By choosing this image, the Festival celebrates both the progress made and the journey still ahead. Once a provocative reimagining of a male-dominated genre, Thelma & Louise has since become a cultural touchstone—an enduring symbol of liberation and solidarity.

Thirty-five years on, these two trailblazing characters return not just as cinematic legends, but as timeless icons—looking back at their legacy while still challenging the world to move forward.

Credits of the official poster of the 79th Festival de Cannes: Photo by Roland Neveu, on the set of Thelma & Louise(Ridley Scott, 1991) © MGM Studios / Graphic design © Hartland Villa