Cannes Film Festival

Cannes vu du Suquet

Note Cannes 1939

Starlette

Palmed'or

Léa Seydoux Adèle Exarchopoulos Césars 2014

Cannes Film Festival is an annual film festival held in Cannes, France, which previews new films of all genres, including documentaries, from around the world. Established in 1946, the event is one of the most prestigious and publicized film festivals in the world. The invitation-only festival is held annually (usually in May) at the Palais des Festivals et des Congrès.

History

The Cannes Film Festival was founded in 1946, although its inception dates back to 1938, when Jean Zay, the French Minister of National Education, on the proposal of historian Philippe Erlanger and with the support of the British and Americans, set out to establish an international cinematographic festival. The first festival was planned to be held in Cannes in 1939 under the presidency of Louis Lumière, but it was cancelled due to World War II. After the war, it was held for the first time in 1946, and has been held annually ever since, except in 1948 and 1950 due to budgetary problems.

Selection Process

Films are selected for various sections of the festival, including the Competition, Un Certain Regard, Out of Competition, Special Screenings, and Cinéfondation. The most prestigious award given out at Cannes is the Palme d'Or (Golden Palm) for the best film. The festival is known for its strict invitation-only policy and for its jury, which consists of international artists and professionals chosen each year to award prizes.

Impact and Controversies

The Cannes Film Festival has played a significant role in promoting films and filmmakers globally. It has been the launching pad for many films that have gone on to gain worldwide acclaim. However, the festival has not been without its controversies, including debates over its selection process, representation of women filmmakers, and political protests.

Notable Awards

• Palme d'Or - The highest prize awarded at the Cannes Film Festival.
• Grand Prix - Considered the second most prestigious award.
• Jury Prize - Awarded to the best film as chosen by the Jury.
• Best Director - Awarded to the best director of a film.
• Best Screenplay - Awarded for the best script.
• Best Actor - Awarded to the best leading actor.
• Best Actress - Awarded to the best leading actress.

Cannes and the Film Industry

The Cannes Film Festival is a key event in the film industry calendar, influencing film trends, launching careers, and providing a platform for networking among film professionals. The festival's market, the Marché du Film, is the world's largest film market, providing a venue for buying and selling film rights and services.

See Also

• Venice Film Festival
• Berlin International Film Festival
• Sundance Film Festival
• Toronto International Film Festival