Sebastián Lelio, Lukas Dhont, Eliza Hittman, Kornél Mundruczó and Jasmila Žbanić to Pitch Projects at Cannes’ Investors Circle

10 directors from eight countries are set to pitch their latest projects in development to a select group of VIP private investors in Cannes as part of the Marche du Film’s Investors Circle initiative.

The list of filmmakers includes Italian director Giacomo Abbruzzese, Belgian director Lukas Dhont, American director Eliza Hittman, Austrian directors Jessica Hausner and Marie Kreutzer, as well as Kornél Mundruczó from Hungary, Jasmila Žbanić from Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Hlynur Pálmason from Iceland (whose latest film “The Love That Remains” will screen in Cannes Première at the 78th Festival de Cannes). South America is also represented by French-Chilean director Marcela Said and Chilean director Sebastián Lelio (who returns to Cannes with “La Ola,” also selected to screen in Cannes Première).

The Investors Circle is now into its third edition and organizers claim is has already proven to be a “powerful catalyst for private investment in auteur cinema.” Many featured projects have secured significant financial backing, with one standout title being “Renoir” by Chie Hayakawa, previously pitched at last year’s Investors Circle which this year is screening in Competition at the festival.

“As new economic models continue to emerge, the Marché du Film reaffirms its role as a global accelerator for innovative film financing,” said Guillaume Esmiol, executive director of the Marché du Film. “For its third edition, the Investors Circle is quickly becoming a reference point for those looking to engage in equity-driven support for independent film. We are proud to provide a platform where auteur cinema and financial strategy align.”

The ten selected projects carry budgets ranging from €3 million to over €9 million.

“This year’s projects reflect bold, original storytelling from some of today’s most compelling auteur filmmakers,” said Aleksandra Zakharchenko, head of the Investors Circle. “These are films with real cultural relevance and global potential – and they need thoughtful, long-term support. With the Investors Circle, we aim to champion these singular voices and help them move from vision to screen.”

The Investors Circle will take place on May 18 at the Plage des Palmes.