Banished Von Trier steals Almodovar's (feeble) thunder, and critics react

The press barely had time to digest Pedro Almodovar's so-so "The Skin I Live In" before news hit that Lars Von Trier had been asked to leave the festival following his comments about Jews at a press conference. Some critics have defended him.

Cannes official selection: Reading between the lines

After a disappointing 2010 edition, hopes are high for Cannes 2011 -- especially since the official competition selection announced last week looks promising. Here are some initial observations, gripes, and pleasant surprises.