The 39th Haifa International Film Festival will proudly showcase Johnny Depp’s newest film, “Jeanne du Barry”, as its inaugural screening. This release highlights Depp’s resilience in the industry, further enhanced by his portrayal of King Louis XV.

Film Festival Highlights

The festival, spanning from September 28 to October 7, will be hosted at the iconic Haifa Cinematheque and various other theaters in Haifa. It promises a rich tapestry of cinematic experiences, featuring hundreds of films globally and spotlighting recent standout Israeli cinema.

Anticipation Builds for Global Films

While the Israeli line-up is already public, the global array remains an eagerly awaited mystery. Yet, attendees can anticipate screenings of critically acclaimed films previously showcased at esteemed festivals like Venice and Toronto. Renowned guests of past festivals include luminaries such as Harvey Keitel, Willem Dafoe, Sophie Marceau, Paul Giamatti, and more.

A Closer Look at “Jeanne du Barry”

Having already made its mark as the opening-night film at Cannes this year, “Jeanne du Barry” showcases the directorial prowess of Maiwenn, known for hits like “My King” and “Polisse”. The plot unveils the tale of a cook’s daughter who ascends to become King Louis XV’s cherished courtesan, preceding the tumultuous French Revolution.

Johnny Depp’s Milestone Role

In a captivating twist, audiences will witness Johnny Depp immersing himself in the French language throughout the film. This portrayal of the multifaceted monarch marks Depp’s cinematic return after a three-year hiatus, a time shadowed by his personal legal battles. Jeanne du Barry have had its world premiere as the opening film at the 2023 Cannes Film Festival on 16 May 2023, where it was greeted with a 7-minute standing ovation, before being theatrically released in France on the same day.

For more details about the Haifa Film Festival, visit haifaff.co.il/eng.