'La Tete haute' by Emmanuelle Bercot to open Cannes film festival

LONDON: Emmanuelle Bercot has become the first female director to open the 68th edition of Cannes film festival with her movie 'La Tete haute' on May 13.

Bercot's film tells the story of a juvenile delinquent, Malony, and his upbringing from childhood to adulthood, as a children's judge and social worker try to save him.

The movie was shot in the Nord-Pas de Calais, Rhone-Alpes and Paris area regions, with the participation of Catherine Deneuve, Benoit Magimel, Sara Forestier and Rod Paradot, who plays the main character.

"The choice of this film may seem surprising, given the rules generally applied to the Festival de Cannes Opening Ceremony," said Thierry Fremaux, Event Director.

"It is a clear reflection of our desire to see the Festival start with a different piece, which is both bold and moving."

The world premiere of coincides with its release in French cinemas.