Eastwood among Cannes favourites

An animated documentary about Israel's 1982 invasion of Lebanon and an unflinching portrait of the Naples mafia were among the front-runners for top honours as the cannes film festival hit the halfway point.

Moviegoers were generally impressed with the quality of the competition films screened so far, although some say the main lineup has lacked the punch of a standout contender.

That may have come on Tuesday with veteran actor and director Clint Eastwood, movie starring Angelina Jolie, won warm applause after its press screening.

Originally titled “Changeling,” there was some confusion at the news conference about the English title for the 1920s drama, with production notes calling it “The Exchange.”

“Usually at this stage we would have seen more absolute stinkers,” said film critic and author Mark Cousins, who is attending his 18th Cannes festival. “For me it’s a rather high standard.”

Among his favourites for the Palme d’Or, which goes to the jury’s choice for best film, is “Waltz with Bashir,” director Ari Folman’s attempt to piece together buried memories of the 1982 massacre of Palestinians in Beirut’s Sabra and Shatila camps.

Italy’s “Gomorra” was hailed for its bravery in depicting the brutal world of the Camorra crime network in Naples. It is based on the best-selling account by journalist Roberto Saviano, who has been living under police protection for the past two years.

Both entries are regarded as political, which may give them the edge if jury president Sean Penn wishes to highlight topicality alongside cinematic craft at the prize ceremony on Sunday.