Xavier Dolan's star rises with 3rd Cannes selection

Quebec's youthful filmmaker Xavier Dolan is making a big impression at the 2012 Cannes Film Festival in France, where his latest and longestmovie Laurence Anyways made its international debut Friday.

The 23year old'sfilm is an official selection in the Un Certain Regardcategory, whichrecognizes emerging talent and innovative, daring filmmaking.

Laurence Anyways explores the struggles of a man who wants to become a woman, while simultaneously preserving his long-term heterosexual relationship. Dolan, who describes his films as "semi-fictional, semi-therapeutic," said the only thing he expects from theFrench festival is "friendship."

This despite the fact thathis debut film, Jai tu ma mere (I Killed My Mother) won three awards at Cannes in 2009, while his second picture, Les amours imaginaires (Heartbeats), was also critically acclaimed at the festival.

Dolanis part of a strong Canadian contingent showcasing their talent amid the star-studded festival on the French Riviera, which began May 16 and ends May 27.

David Cronenberg's son Brandon is also competing in the Un Certain Regard category with his chilling debut feature Antiviral. Meanwhile, his established father is unveiling his adaptation of Cosmopolis, based on Don DeLillo's novel.

While in Cannes, actors Emily Hampshire and Sarah Gadon will also be the recipients of the first inaugural Birks Canadian Diamond, an award presented by the Canadian diamond retailer to "recognize the accomplishments of up-and-coming Canadian talent who allow our country to be celebrated on the international stage."

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