Cinema Highlights for May 2026

May 2026 is set to kick off with the prestigious Cannes Film Festival, commencing on May 12. This month promises a plethora of cinematic releases that seem to align with the grandeur of the Croisette. Notable entries include Pedro Almodóvar competing with his latest work, and Pierre Salvadori's film serving as the festival's opening feature. The lineup also features a poignant Spanish drama starring Javier Bardem and Marina Foïs, encapsulating the complexities of contemporary cinema.

Here’s a look at the must-see films hitting theaters this May.

Release dates are subject to change by distributors.

May 6

The Criminals – David Mackenzie

Starring Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Theo James, Sam Worthington

A World War II bomb is unearthed at a London construction site, prompting a massive evacuation that presents a perfect opportunity for a heist. David Mackenzie, known for Hell or High Water, returns to the thriller genre with a well-crafted narrative, showcasing Aaron Taylor-Johnson in a compelling role.

Pour le plaisir – Reem Kherici

Starring Alexandra Lamy, François Cluzet

Fanny and Tom, a couple married for two decades, find their relationship tested when Fanny reveals she has never experienced an orgasm. Tom, an engineer, takes on the challenge to change this. This French comedy, featuring the dynamic duo of Lamy and Cluzet, promises to resonate with audiences.

C’est quoi l’amour ? – Fabien Gorgeart

Starring Laure Calamy, Vincent Macaigne

Marguerite agrees to her ex's request for an annulment from the Church, leading her on a journey to confront her past. This film, awarded the Grand Prix at Alpe d’Huez, highlights the talents of Calamy and Macaigne, who excel under skilled direction.

Mi Amor – Guillaume Nicloux

Starring Pom Klementieff, Benoît Magimel, Astrid Bergès-Frisbey

Romy travels to the Canary Islands for a techno party, only to find her friend missing by dawn. This atmospheric film delves into themes of disappearance and longing, showcasing Nicloux's ability to elevate genre cinema into something more profound.

May 12 – Cannes Opening

La Vénus électrique – Pierre Salvadori ⭐ Film d’ouverture Cannes 2026

Starring Gilles Lellouche, Charlotte Le Bon, Pio Marmai

Set in 1920s Paris, Antoine, unable to paint since his wife Irène's death, attempts to connect with her through a fortune teller while actually speaking to Suzanne, a performer. Salvadori, known for En liberté! and Hors de prix, returns with this touching and whimsical dramedy, chosen to open Cannes 2026.

May 13

L’Abandon – Vincent Garenq

Starring Antoine Reinartz, Emmanuelle Bercot – Hors compétition Cannes 2026

On October 16, 2020, the tragic assassination of Samuel Paty outside his school shocked the nation. While his name is widely recognized, few understand the man behind it. Garenq, known for Présumé Coupable, explores the final eleven days of Paty’s life, focusing on his human side rather than judicial proceedings. This film, shrouded in secrecy, was announced shortly after the appeal verdict.

May 16

El Ser Querido – Rodrigo Sorogoyen

Starring Javier Bardem, Marina Foïs, Malena Villa – Compétition Cannes 2026

An acclaimed director and his unsuccessful actress daughter reunite to make a film after years apart, confronting a complicated past neither wishes to discuss. Sorogoyen, known for As Bestas, directs this compelling narrative featuring Bardem and Foïs, a pairing that demands attention.

May 20

The Mandalorian & Grogu – Dave Filoni

Starring Pedro Pascal

This film marks the first cinematic entry into the Star Wars universe directly stemming from The Mandalorian. For fans, it signals the start of a thrilling summer event with Mando and Grogu on the big screen.

Autofiction – Pedro Almodóvar ⭐ Compétition Cannes 2026

Starring Bárbara Lennie, Leonardo Sbaraglia, Aitana Sánchez-Gijón

Raúl, a cult filmmaker, grapples with a creative crisis spurred by a tragic event affecting one of his collaborators. Almodóvar returns to a meta-narrative style at 74, showcasing his enduring relevance in cinema and his longstanding connection with Cannes.

Les Goûteuses d’Hitler – Silvio Soldini

Historical Drama

Set during the waning years of the Nazi regime, this film tells the story of young women tasked with tasting Hitler's food to check for poisoning. It offers a unique perspective on the inner workings of totalitarian power.

May 27

Le Concert des accusations – Agnès Jaoui

Starring Daniel Auteuil, Agnès Jaoui, Eye Haidara

Behind the scenes of a production of The Marriage of Figaro, a sexual assault allegation rocks the cast. Jaoui reunites with Auteuil in this film that tackles generational conflicts and stances within the cultural realm, addressing a pressing issue with her trademark dialogue.

Le Virtuose – Daniel Roher

Documentary

A gifted piano tuner with extraordinary hearing finds his life turned upside down when his talent draws the attention of criminals, leading him into a world of burglary. Roher, previously acclaimed for Navalny, shifts genres with this thrilling narrative.

Mata – Rachel Lang

Espionage Thriller

Mata, an operative wounded during a covert operation in Niger, returns home to find her kidnapped partner. She embarks on a counter-espionage mission in the Alps. This French espionage thriller emerges as the genre regains momentum in French cinema.

Cannes 2026 commences on May 12, with Park Chan-wook presiding over the jury. The festival will open with La Vénus électrique, and a comprehensive article on the official selection can be found on our blog.