OUT OF COMPETITION – Grace in the eyes of Olivier Dahan

Olivier Dahan is making a dazzling debut at the Festival de Cannes. Grace of Monaco, the opening film of the Festival’s 67th year, is a powerful homage to Grace Kelly, the queen of Hollywood who was crowned Princess of Monaco in 1956. Under Dahan’s direction Nicole Kidman elegantly brings to life this unshakeable icon of Hollywood royalty. 

Still from the film © DR

Olivier Dahan’s ninth feature film pays homage to Grace – the woman, the princess and the actress. By honing in on the year 1962, Dahan delivers an intense portrayal of the actress’s experiences. The woman living the real-life fairytale is grappling with a difficult decision. Alfred Hitchcock, her favourite director, is trying to bring her back to Hollywood to play the role of Marnie. His offer comes amidst political crisis between Monaco and France during which the threat of invasion looms. Grace has two choices: she can continue to play Grace Kelly, the quintessential Hollywood star, or embrace her role as Grace of Monaco, the model princess.

The film was shot amid Princess Grace’s familiar surrounds in Monaco, beneath the much-romanticised blazing sun of the French Riviera. Olivier Dahan directs contemporary icon Nicole Kidman in her portrayal of the Hollywood legend’s turbulent private life. Grace Kelly first attended the Festival de Cannes in 1955 to represent The Country Girl by George Seaton, for which she won an Oscar for Best Actress. It was at the Festival that she would be introduced to Prince Rainier III, who is played by Tim Roth in the film.

In 2005 Olivier Dahan’s biopic of Edith Piaf, La Vie en Rose (La Môme), was released to widespread acclaim. Marion Cotillard’s performance in the starring role earned her an Oscar for Best Actress.

Hannah Benayoun

SCREENINGS:

>>> Go to interactive calendar