Pierre Salvadori says he was happy but unable to celebrate after learning his unfinished comedy The Electric Kiss had been chosen to open the 79th Cannes Film Festival, forcing him to keep working right up to the deadline.
The film, a 1920s Paris-set comedy about a fake psychic who cons a widower before falling in love with him, was selected despite still being in post-production.
Salvadori said he never expected it to enter competition and had quietly hoped it would be chosen to open the festival instead.
Festival rules require the opening film to premiere in cinemas across France on the same day as the ceremony.
Festival director Thierry Frémaux said the rule, introduced around 15 years ago, is meant to strengthen commercial impact and reinforce the idea that cinema should be experienced in theatres.
Salvadori said he looks forward to the audience reaction, calling it a key part of his motivation as a filmmaker.
The selection process began in December, with organisers reviewing films based on audience appeal, critical potential, direction, and cast strength.
Frémaux said the opening film is not necessarily part of the main competition and is chosen to make an immediate impact.
In recent years, opening films have increasingly been directed by French filmmakers.
While past editions featured Hollywood titles such as Moulin Rouge! and The Da Vinci Code, international studio films have become less common.
Experts say the opening slot provides strong visibility for any film, describing it as one of the most powerful promotional platforms in global cinema.
