Cannes [France], May 24: Acclaimed director Kelly Reichardt received an 8-minute standing ovation at the 2025 Cannes Film Festival for her latest film, The Mastermind, which premiered in the Competition section on Friday night.
This marks Reichardt’s second Cannes Competition entry, following her 2022 feature Showing Up. Set in 1970s Massachusetts, The Mastermind tells the story of JB Mooney, a struggling carpenter-turned-amateur art thief, portrayed by Josh O’Connor. The film traces Mooney’s descent into chaos after a botched heist, exploring themes of morality, identity, and the elusive American Dream.
The film also features a stellar ensemble cast including Alana Haim, John Magaro, Hope Davis, Bill Camp, and Gaby Hoffmann.
According to Deadline, early reviews have praised The Mastermind for its emotional depth, subtle humor, and O’Connor’s standout performance. Critics particularly lauded Reichardt’s signature minimalist style, characterized by long takes, sparse dialogue, and a focus on the mundane, which enriches the film’s psychological and thematic complexity.
The film’s cinematography and period-specific production design have also earned acclaim for their authenticity and nuance.
Mubi has acquired distribution rights for North America, the UK, and India, while The Match Factory is handling international sales.
Reichardt’s work, known for its quiet intensity and intimate storytelling, continues to earn recognition for its unique voice in American independent cinema. With The Mastermind, she adds another critical gem to her already celebrated filmography.