Bérénice Bejo’s future in the United States lies in The Past…

Sony Pictures Classics has landed U.S. rights to the French drama The Past, which stars the 36-year-old Argentine Oscar-nominated actress, at the Cannes Film Festival.

Directed by Asghar Farhadi, the film’s twisting plot involves secrets, lies, deceit, divorce, affairs, comas, pregnancy and other traumatic situations.

“This is a film that is so far removed from my life, from my everyday,” says Bejo. “But at the same time, it’s really interesting to play someone who is your total opposite.”

The ambitious drama starring Bejo, Ali Mosaffa and Tahar Rahim, is considered an early contender for the Palme d’Or, with reaction and reviews very strong after its screening Friday in competition.

Bejo, who earned an Oscar nomination for her star-making role in The Artist, stepped into the lead role after Marion Cotillard had to exit the project due to a scheduling conflict.