Festival de Cannes is the world's most famous and prestigious film festival. This event screens some of the year's best films, drawing the greatest film industry professionals to the beautiful French Riviera. About 35,000 professionals and cinema enthusiasts ascend the iconic 24 steps of the Palais des Festivals to become a part of the celebration. This year, the sunny southern French region of Provence holds the 77th edition of the festival from May 14 to 25.
Free Screenings
While the Festival de Cannes is primarily an invitation-only affair, its spirit of inclusivity extends beyond the Palais des Festivals. Free screenings at the Cinéma de la Plage invite locals and visitors alike to partake in the cinematic extravaganza every evening from 9:30 pm on.
Celebrities in Cannes
For those looking to catch a glimpse of their favorite celebrities, the best bet is to position near the red carpet entrance at the Palais des Festivals. Arriving early to secure a prime spot is advisable as fans gather eagerly throughout the day. Alternatively, Hollywood insiders often stroll along La Croisette and attend establishments like Fouquet's and La Guérite. The trendy hotspot Bâoli, known for its rooftop bar and nightclub scene, can be another place to spot the celebrities unwinding from the festival's endless events. Some dedicated celebrity watchers even track yachts using the Marine Traffic website, equipped with binoculars for potential sightings of the superstars enjoying the coastal views.
Official Selection
At the heart of the festival lies its commitment to spotlighting innovation and fostering emerging talent. Pushing the boundaries of creativity, the Official Selection is divided into categories: In Competition, Un Certain Regard, Special Screenings, Midnight Screenings, Cannes Premiere, and Out of Competition films.
In Competition
The 77th Festival de Cannes boasts a diverse lineup of films in competition, each offering a unique exploration of human experience and cinematic artistry. "The Apprentice" delves into Donald Trump's early years as a real estate magnate, while "Motel Destino" weaves a tale of love and resistance. "Anora" offers a comedic look at a sex worker's life, and "Megalopolis" imagines a utopian New York post-disaster. Meanwhile, "The Shrouds" explores grief and innovation in an eerie tale of connection with the deceased. With such a varied selection, audiences are in for a captivating journey through imagination and emotion.
Future of Cinema
Beyond the glitz and glamour, the festival's enduring legacy is rooted in its dedication to nurturing the future of cinema. Through initiatives like the "Cinéma de Demain," the festival empowers aspiring filmmakers, providing them with the resources and support needed to bring their visions to life. Moreover, its steadfast commitment to freedom of expression, equality, and diversity underscores its role as a social change and cultural enrichment catalyst.
Marché du Film
While the Festival de Cannes mainly focuses on showcasing films, the Marché du Film (May 14-22) is a dynamic platform where filmmakers, producers, distributors, and financiers converge to negotiate deals, showcase projects, and explore new opportunities. The business counterpart of the festival is held annually during the Festival de Cannes in the iconic Palais des Festivals et des Congrès. Alongside the festival's glittering premieres and red-carpet events, the Marché du Film buzzes with activity, hosting screenings, workshops, and panels that fuel innovation and collaboration in the global film community.
History
Originating in 1939, the inaugural event, under the honorary presidency of Louis Lumière, faced the shadow of impending conflict as World War II loomed. Despite turmoil, the festival persisted, albeit briefly, showcasing notable films like "The Hunchback of Notre-Dame" before the outbreak of war forced its postponement. Attempts to revive the festival were thwarted by the escalating conflict until 1946 when post-war France provided fertile ground for its rebirth. Over the years, the festival evolved, navigating through controversies and embracing modernity. Symbolized by the construction of the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès in 1983, Cannes became synonymous with cinematic excellence and innovation.
