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At Cannes, László Nemes’ ‘Moulin’ Stuns Visually but Divides on Scope

The film is still seeking U.S. buyers after its competition bow.

Overview

  • The biographical drama about French Resistance leader Jean Moulin premiered in competition at the 2026 Cannes Film Festival and is seeking U.S. distribution.
  • The story concentrates on Moulin’s clandestine return to occupied France and his capture and interrogation by Gestapo officer Klaus Barbie.
  • Critics praise Mátyás Erdély’s 35mm cinematography and call out strong performances from Gilles Lellouche as Moulin and Lars Eidinger as Barbie.
  • Several reviews argue the film keeps a narrow focus with little historical context and largely avoids exploring who betrayed Moulin.
  • Early reactions trend lukewarm on critics’ panels, with IONCINEMA reporting a 2.5 average score from initial ballots.