**Cannes Film Festival 2023: Key Highlights to Anticipate**

As the Cannes Film Festival kicks off, prominent names and compelling narratives are set to take center stage this year.

As the 2023 Cannes Film Festival unfolds, the French Riviera becomes a hotspot for Hollywood stars and the world of cinema, featuring actors like Scarlett Johansson, Tom Cruise, and Jennifer Lawrence grace the red carpet. The festival, renowned for launching significant Oscar contenders, is poised to unveil films that might dominate the awards season in the year ahead.

**1. First Look at Potential Oscar Winners**
Cannes has firmly established itself as a launchpad for films that later become front-runners during awards season. Recent history shows that many Palme d'Or winners at Cannes have gone on to receive Best Picture nominations at the Oscars. This year's jury, led by Juliette Binoche, has a stacked roster of films to evaluate, including Lawrence's performance in Lynne Ramsay's adaptation of "Die My Love," alongside Robert Pattinson, and Josh O'Connor's dual roles in competition films, such as "The History of Sound."

**2. Stars Transitioning to Directing Roles**
Scarlett Johansson will make her directorial debut in "Eleanor the Great," which portrays a 94-year-old woman suddenly thrust into the limelight. Other actors stepping behind the camera include Kristen Stewart with "The Chronology of Water" and British actor Harris Dickinson with "Urchin," all vying for recognition in the festival's Un Certain Regard section.

**3. Legendary Figures in Focus**
This year's festival will see icons like Robert De Niro honored with the prestigious honorary Palme d'Or, while Spike Lee and Denzel Washington premiere their reimagination of "High and Low." Additionally, Jodie Foster returns with the French comedy "A Private Life," screened out of competition, and Tom Cruise is expected to appear at the premiere of the latest "Mission: Impossible" film.

**4. Documentaries Addressing Global Issues**
Prominent documentaries will take center stage this year, including "Put Your Soul On Your Hand And Walk," spotlighting the impact and tragedy surrounding Palestinian photographer Fatima Hassouna. The festival will also present films like "Once Upon a Time In Gaza" and a highly anticipated feature on Julian Assange, alongside a documentary on Bono.

**5. Addressing Critical Social Issues**
Cannes opens amidst significant dialogues surrounding sexual misconduct in the film industry, highlighted by the ongoing trial of actor Gérard Depardieu, who faces allegations of sexual assault. Amidst this, discussions about the potential for new tariffs on foreign-made films may reverberate through industry circles, with implications for creative efforts both in France and the US.

As Cannes showcases stellar talent and tackles relevant social themes, it remains a significant platform for the film community, combining glamour with pressing global concerns.