65th Semaine de la Critique 2026

For over sixty years, La Semaine de la Critique has established itself as one of the leading platforms for discovery at the Cannes Film Festival. Dedicated to first and second films, it has revealed some of the most significant filmmakers of our time – such as Alejandro González Iñárritu, Wong Kar-wai, Jacques Audiard, and Rebecca Zlotowski – and continues to bring to light new voices from around the world. Once again this year, Pauline Loquès’s first feature Nino, selected for the 2025 edition of La Semaine de la Critique, won two César Awards. 

This work is essential. In a rapidly evolving audiovisual industry, where images travel further and faster than ever before, we must support filmmakers who take risks, invent new forms, and present singular visions. They are the ones who will make a difference. 

It is one of the CNC’s core missions: to support emerging talents, from their very first steps in filmmaking through to meeting their audience. With programmes such as our support for short films, Avance sur recettes, and Aide aux cinémas du monde, many filmmakers are able to take decisive steps in their creative journey and find their place on the international stage. 

I would like to commend the team at La Semaine de la Critique for extending their reach across the world to identify and champion new cinematic endeavours.

Wishing you all a wonderful 2026 edition!

Gaëtan Bruel
Chairman | CNC
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