A feast of films at Cannes

The Cannes Film Festival received its biggest dose of Hollywood excitement on Tuesday at the first screening of the title film Killing Me Softly, which features Hollywood hunk Brad Pitt. In the film, Pitt is called to track down a group of thieves who are believed to have stolen from a lucrative poker game. Directed by Andrew Dominik, this gangster thriller has received an element of criticism for its violent nature and gory scenes. The tale is based on the book Cogan’s Trade by George V Higgins and the action unfolds in 2008 when financial markets plunged into crisis. The failure of politicians and unkept promises are played in the background on televisions and radios as the characters go about their sordid business. 

In a post-screening press conference, the director claimed that the USA is a country "very concerned with making money." The main focus of this anti-capitalist production is the extreme notions of US capitalism comparing it to ruthless crime. 

For the gala premiere, screaming fans were cautioned off by large metal fences as the Hollywood idol stepped onto the red carpet, suited in a slim fit tuxedo but without his famous partner, Angelina Jolie, who was preparing for a role. 

English playboy model, Kelly Brooke also wowed guests at the Killing Me Softly premiere in an eye-catching, sparkling number featuring a series of brightly coloured embellishments. In contrast, judge Diane Kruger turned heads in an exquisite, white ensemble. 

Pitt also had to share the limelight with modest Scotsman Paul Brannigan who, shocked by the dazzling flashlights at Tuesday's premiere of The Angels' Share, burst into tears. He told press that landing a role in the Ken Loach film has "probably saved my life." Previously, Brannigan had worked only four hours a week coaching football. The Angels' Share is one of 22 on a shortlist for Cannes' notorious Palme d'Or prize and is set against a backdrop of unemployment and poverty in Scotland. Despite all the Hollywood hype, Cannes Film Festival focuses on showcasing compelling dramas, made by directors with little money.  

The film premiere of Amour (Love), which took place on Sunday presents a sinister drama following an elderly couple facing death. This gallant representation of a woman's illness has bowled over critics and is a favourite to win the Palme d'Or prize.  

Another popular entry for this year is Cristian Mungiu's psychological drama Beyond the Hills. This tragic film,  inspired by true events, is centred on a emotionally-disturbed young woman staying at a remote monastery in Romania, whose frantic fits are viewed as signs of the devil. However, the Danish film The Hunt by Thomas Vindeburg is also a strong contender, depicting the life of a man who is wrongly accused and consequently excluded from society.  

So what's next? Well, the likes of Nicole Kidman, Robert Pattinson, Kristin Stewart and Kanye West will be expected to hit the red carpet in the next few days.  

Katie Williams