video transcript

It might only be day two, but the Cannes film festival had already uncovered a breakout star. Belgian actor Matthias Schoenaerts is earning critical acclaim for his portrayal of a tough guy in the French drama "Rust and Bone". He's is not new to the big screen, but for thousands of critics and fans it was their first look at the 34-year-old. And he's lucky because, director Jacques Audiard says Schoenaerts is not the kind of male he typically casts in his films. SOUNDBITE: Jacques Audiard, director, saying (French): "Matthias doesn't fit in my usual masculine criteria. I prefer small men, you see. And even I was surprised to choose this tall man, full of muscles." At the press conference for the movie, Cotillard compared her co-star to some of the biggest names in the industry. SOUNDBITE: Marion Cotillard, actress, saying (French): "I've been lucky to work with amazing actors and Matthias is really one of them, such as Di Caprio, Daniel Day Lewis and many others who just get into a project -- (TO SCHOENAERTS) it is always difficult, I try to forget that you're here to be able to talk about you freely." And as for Schoenaerts' future, things are looking good. SOUNDBITE: Matthias Schoenaerts, actor, saying (English): "Last week they called me for Rambo 34... And I said I'll do it if I get 35 and 36 as well! There's a lot of stuff moving and I'm excited but I'm not in a rush so I take my time and I just look for exciting projects." The Cannes Film Festival runs until May 27th. Alicia Powell, Reuters.