At the Cannes Film Festival 2022, few premieres were as anticipated—or as joyfully unexpected—as Final Cut (Coupez!), the latest film by Michel Hazanavicius, the Academy Award–winning director of The Artist and one of France’s most respected cinematic voices.
The energy on the Croisette was electric as VIP guests, industry icons, collectors, and film lovers gathered for the opening-night screening. For many, seeing Hazanavicius present a zombie comedy remake was a delightful surprise, showcasing yet again his ability to shift between genres with mastery, intelligence, and playfulness.
A Playful Reinvention of a Cult Classic
Final Cut is the French remake of the 2017 Japanese cult sensation One Cut of the Dead. With Hazanavicius at the helm, the film gained new layers of humor, style, and cinematic charm.
Starring Romain Duris and Bérénice Bejo, the film follows a chaotic, hilarious, and strangely heartfelt story about a film crew trying to remake the original zombie movie—only to find themselves facing real disasters on set.
Yoshiko Takehara, who appeared in the original Japanese film, returned to play the producer, offering a bridge between cultures, versions, and generations of filmmakers. It’s this fusion of French elegance, Japanese craftsmanship, and Hazanavicius’s comedic precision that made the film a festival highlight.
A VIP Moment on the Croisette
During Cannes, VIP attendees had the privilege of attending intimate dinners, studio receptions, and private conversations featuring Hazanavicius. Whether at an ocean-view cocktail event hosted by French distributors or at a private villa gathering, he was generous with his insights—and unfailingly witty.
City4VIP sat down with the director shortly before the premiere.
Exclusive Interview with Michel Hazanavicius (Cannes 2022)
City4VIP: Michel, Cannes knows you for prestige films like The Artist. What inspired you to take on a zombie comedy this year?
Hazanavicius: (laughs) I like surprising people. And honestly, One Cut of the Dead is a brilliant film. It’s funny, inventive, and made with such passion. I wanted to honor the spirit of the original while bringing a distinctly French flavor to it. Cinema should be playful—I never want to stay in the same box for too long.
City4VIP: How did Romain Duris and Bérénice Bejo approach this chaos-filled project?
Hazanavicius: They were fearless. You need courage to make a film where everything goes wrong—on purpose! Their chemistry adds emotional depth to the comedy. They understand that the film isn’t just about zombies; it’s about creativity, ego, compromise, and love for the craft.
City4VIP: You brought Yoshiko Takehara back from the original film. Why was that important?
Hazanavicius: She carries the DNA of One Cut of the Dead. Having her reprise her role gave our version authenticity and a sense of continuity. It’s like having a blessing from the original creators.
City4VIP: Cannes is known for glamour and intensity. What does being here with Final Cut mean to you?
Hazanavicius: Cannes is cinema’s heartbeat. Showing this film here—surrounded by filmmakers, actors, collectors, and fans—makes the whole crazy adventure worthwhile. The festival reminds us why we tell stories in the first place: to share, surprise, and connect.
A Night Cannes Will Remember
The premiere of Final Cut ended with laughter echoing through the Palais. It wasn’t a typical opening-night drama or prestige epic—Hazanavicius brought joy, irreverence, and a much-needed breath of cinematic fun.
VIP guests emerged smiling, many heading to the exclusive after-party where cast, producers, buyers, and festival insiders gathered under the Mediterranean sky. The mood?
Playful, elegant, and full of creative energy—exactly the spirit of Hazanavicius himself.
