You’d think the already-stacked Cannes Film Festival would be done with its line-up, but this morning it announced one more title. Organizers are welcoming Robert De Niro to the Grand Theatre Lumière of the Palais des Festivals for a Special Screening of “Hands of Stone” by Venezuelan director Jonathan Jakubowicz.
The movie centers on Panamanian boxer Roberto Duràn (Edgar Ramírez) and manager and coach Ray Arcel (Robert De Niro) who achieved the highest worldwide successes of the ring in the ’70s and ’80s, including legendary fights against Sugar Ray Leonard and more.
“I’m excited to be coming back to Cannes especially with this movie ‘Hands of Stone’ that I’m so proud of,” De Niro said in a statement. “This movie is uplifting, triumphant and a good time for audiences, so I’m looking forward to seeing my friends from across the world of cinema in joining us for this fun event.”
Producer Harvey Weinstein declared in a typically blustery statement: “ ‘Hands of Stone’ is vintage De Niro. Anyone who knows Bob, knows what a passion he has for boxing and his huge input into this movie made it very realistic and smart. On behalf of the company, we are thrilled that the Festival de Cannes chose to honor Bob this year with a special screening. It promises to be a fun time and a fantastic night to pay tribute to one of the great men of our industry.”
“Hands Of Stone” is produced and distributed by the Weinstein Company and is due for release in North American on August 26th. But keep an eye out for our review from Cannes.
