“Black Flies” marks the long-awaited reunion of Sean Penn and Tye Sheridan on the silver screen, more than ten years after their previous collaboration in “The Tree of Life,” which won the Palme d’Or at the 2011 Cannes Film Festival. Directed by Jean-Stephane Sauvaire, the film had its premiere at Cannes, where it competes for the festival’s top prize.
Before stepping onto the red carpet for the screening, Penn was seen smoking a cigarette, which he then handed off to be discarded. The gritty tale revolves around New York City paramedics and delves into the challenging world they face. Penn, a renowned actor who has received an Academy Award, takes on the role of Rutkovsky, a seasoned paramedic. On the other hand, Sheridan, known for his portrayal of Cyclops in the X-Men film series, stars as Cross, a newcomer to the field.
“Black Flies” also features notable actors such as former boxer Mike Tyson, Michael Pitt from “Funny Games,” and Katherine Waterston from “Inherent Vice,” among others. The film is an adaptation of the novel “911” by Shannon Burke, drawing from the author’s own experiences as a paramedic in Harlem during the mid-1990s crack epidemic.
With its raw and realistic portrayal of the challenges faced by paramedics in a tumultuous environment, “Black Flies” offers a gripping narrative that explores the human side of emergency medical responders. The reunion of Penn and Sheridan on screen adds anticipation and excitement to the film, as viewers anticipate their on-screen chemistry and performances.
Premiering at Cannes, “Black Flies” aims to captivate audiences and potentially secure recognition as one of the standout films of the festival. Its exploration of personal and professional struggles within the paramedic profession, set against the backdrop of a troubled era in New York City, promises an intense and thought-provoking cinematic experience.