Richard Linklater’s “Nouvelle Vague” Premieres with Enthusiastic Reception at Cannes 2025

Richard Linklater’s much-anticipated film, “Nouvelle Vague,” made a grand splash at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival, where it had its world premiere. Paying tribute to the iconic French New Wave, the film captivated audiences and critics alike, receiving a resounding six-and-a-half-minute standing ovation. The event not only showcased the film but also marked a significant moment for its cast and crew, led by actress Zoey Deutch, who shared emotional gestures of appreciation toward the audience.

A Vibrant Premiere Experience

The festival premiere of “Nouvelle Vague” was spirited from the outset. Linklater and Deutch brought infectious energy to the red carpet, dancing and singing as they ascended the Palais’ iconic steps. Before the screening began, Linklater shared a heartfelt moment with fellow filmmaker Quentin Tarantino, who is no stranger to Cannes and has long admired Linklater’s work. Tarantino was visibly moved by the film, showing his support during the extended applause that followed the screening.

“It means so much for us to be here tonight,” Linklater expressed to the audience after the screening. “Over a year ago, we were filming right here, and we all said, ‘wouldn’t it be amazing if we could end up here showing our movie?’ And here we are! Cinema is magic… It means so much in film history, and it meant so much to each cast member, every crew member.” His words resonated deeply with the audience, enhancing the film’s emotional weight.

The Narrative Behind “Nouvelle Vague”

“Nouvelle Vague” closely chronicles the making of Jean-Luc Godard’s celebrated French New Wave classic, “Breathless.” In a remarkable casting choice, Guillaume Marbeck portrays Godard, while Zoey Deutch stars as the leading lady Jean Seberg, and Aubry Dullin takes on the role of the iconic male star, Jean-Paul Belmondo. This film marks Linklater’s first project filmed entirely in French, showcasing his versatility and deep love for cinema.

Critics have praised “Nouvelle Vague,” with Variety’s Owen Gleiberman calling it a standout of the festival. He remarks, “Guillaume Marbeck is so perfect as Jean-Luc Godard he’s uncanny. And so is the whole movie.” These accolades affirm Linklater’s commitment to filmmaking and underline the film’s deep resonance within the cinematic community.

Linklater’s Long-standing Influence from Godard

Linklater has frequently cited Godard as one of his primary influences, making “Nouvelle Vague” not only a film but a labor of love. He reflects on Godard’s impact, stating that the filmmaker instilled in him an “absolute love and dedication to cinema.” Linklater’s aspiration with this project is to honor that spirit and immerse audiences in the reverence of cinema as a transformative art form.

A Promising Year for Linklater

2025 is shaping up to be a remarkable year for Linklater. Earlier in February, he graced the Berlin International Film Festival with the premiere of his biographical musical drama, “Blue Moon.” This film, starring Ethan Hawke, Margaret Qualley, and Andrew Scott, garnered strong reviews and earned Scott the Silver Bear for his supporting role. Set for theatrical release by Sony Pictures Classics later this year, “Blue Moon” further illustrates Linklater’s penchant for storytelling that resonates with audiences on multiple levels.

His previous works, including “Hit Man,” which premiered at Venice in 2023 and found success on Netflix, highlight his ability to adapt to varying cinematic styles while continually pushing artistic boundaries.

Looking Ahead

As Linklater continues to solidify his reputation as a major festival player, “Nouvelle Vague” stands as a testament to his dedication to the craft. With its blend of historical homage and vibrant storytelling, this film not only honors a pivotal moment in cinema history but also invites a new generation of cinephiles to explore the rich legacy of the French New Wave.

For fans of film history and those curious about Linklater’s exploration of the subject, “Nouvelle Vague” is a must-see. It serves as both a celebration of cinema and a reminder of the passion that fuels great filmmaking. As audiences await its wider release, one can only hope that this film inspires similar reverence for the artistry of cinema in others.

For more on Richard Linklater’s influential works, check out our articles on “Blue Moon”, “Hit Man”, and an in-depth look at the French New Wave.