Criss-crossing between London and Paris, this haunting character study doubles as a ghost story that straddles the real and the supernatural. Boasting a soul-bearing performance from Kristen Stewart where grief is made bodily concrete, the film saw Assayas share the Best Director Award at Cannes.

From French king of cool Bertrand Bonello, this endlessly mysterious chiller subverts horror tropes in unexpected ways, fearlessly unleashing suppressed demons. Boasting a sharp political edge, lavish visuals, and an ace synth score by Bonello himself, Zombi Child is a sublime slice of sinuous pulp.