2003 Cannes Film Festival
The 56th Cannes Film Festival started on 14 May and ran until 25 May 2003. It showcased a diverse selection of international films from various genres. French opera and theatre director, filmmaker, actor and producer Patrice Chéreau was the president of the jury. The Palme d'Or went to the American film Elephant by Gus Van Sant based on the Columbine High School massacre.
Official poster of the 56th Cannes Film Festival featuring an original illustration by Jenny Holzer. | |
| Opening film | Fanfan la Tulipe |
|---|---|
| Closing film | Charlie: The Life and Art of Charles Chaplin |
| Location | Cannes, France |
| Founded | 1946 |
| Awards | Palme d'Or: Elephant |
| Hosted by | Monica Bellucci |
| No. of films | 20 (In Competition) 19 (Un Certain Regard) 19 (Out of Competition) 20 (Cinéfondation) 9 Short Films Competition) |
| Festival date | 14 May 2003 – 25 May 2003 |
| Website | festival-cannes |
Another notable highlight of the 2003 Cannes Film Festival was the presence of iconic filmmaker Ingmar Bergman, who received an Honorary Palme d'Or for his contributions to cinema throughout his career.
The festival Opening Film was Fanfan la Tulipe, directed by Gérard Krawczyk, while Charlie: The Life and Art of Charles Chaplin, directed by Richard Schickel, was the Closing Film Monica Bellucci was the mistress of ceremonies.