The Cannes Film Festival, a colorful festival of films and stars, is set to begin today (May 17) in the French coastal city of Cannes, and will continue until May 28.
The festival was inaugurated on September 20, 1946, in the first ‘Pale the Festival’ convention center built to host the event.
The festival started an annual tradition and was meant to rival the Venice Film Festival.
Thanks to the appearance of stars on the silver screen from around the world and increased media attention, the Cannes Festival has quickly gained international fame.
Read more: Cannes or Cannes? What is the correct name of the city?
A new Palace was built in 1979 to accommodate the growing success of the fair. The six-storey modernist building on Boulevard de la Croisette – known as ‘The Bunker’ – opened in 1982 and was extended in 1999.
The venue is the centerpiece of the 12-day film festival, where upon arrival stars climb the famous 24-step staircase before climbing the red carpet, stopping to pose for hundreds of photographers before entering the palace.
Once inside, performers head to the 2,300-seat Grand Auditorium Louis Lumiere.
There are twice-nightly gala screenings throughout the festival, with guests and media on the red carpet expected to adhere to a strict dress code.
The ‘Palam DO’ award for the best film director is also given here.
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Down in the basement, thousands more films are screened as part of the Marche du Film. It is a meeting place for industry professionals, attracting thousands of participants to launch, discover, buy and sell new films and projects.
For those not able to access the bunker, there are nightly screenings for al fresco fans on the beaches of Boulevard d’Angles.
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**Interview with Film Critic and Festival Expert Mia Lawson on the 2023 Cannes Film Festival**
**Editor:** Thank you for joining us today, Mia. The Cannes Film Festival has officially kicked off! Can you share your thoughts on what makes this festival so special in the film industry?
**Mia Lawson:** Absolutely, it’s a pleasure to be here! Cannes is more than just a film festival; it’s a celebration of cinema. It has such a rich history since its inauguration in 1946, and over the decades, it has become a prestigious platform for filmmakers from around the world to showcase their work. The glitz and glamour, combined with the exceptional artistry of the films presented, create a unique atmosphere that draws both industry professionals and audiences alike.
**Editor:** The festival aims to compete with the Venice Film Festival. How has Cannes distinguished itself in that context?
**Mia Lawson:** That’s a great question. While both festivals celebrate cinema, Cannes has managed to carve out its identity by emphasizing not just films but the overall spectacle of the event. The red carpet, the high-profile premieres, and the attendance of international stars bolster its allure. Additionally, Cannes has a strong focus on commercial success and networking opportunities for creators, which attracts major studios and independent filmmakers.
**Editor:** This year, from May 17 to May 28, what are you looking forward to most at the festival?
**Mia Lawson:** I’m particularly excited about the range of films being showcased, especially the international entries. Cannes often premieres films that go on to garner awards during the film season. Plus, the chance to see how filmmakers utilize the platform to tackle pressing global issues and tell diverse stories is always inspiring. And of course, the discussions that emerge from these films and the chance to engage with filmmakers and critics from around the world is something I truly look forward to.
**Editor:** It sounds like this year’s festival promises to be insightful! Is there anything that you think the public should pay attention to during the festival?
**Mia Lawson:** Definitely. Aside from the big-name films and stars, I encourage everyone to explore the different categories showcased, like the Short Films and the Critics’ Week. Often, these lesser-known entries present groundbreaking cinema that’s equally, if not more, impactful. It’s essential to pay attention to emerging voices in global cinema; they represent the future of our industry.
**Editor:** Thank you, Mia, for sharing your insights on the Cannes Film Festival. We’re excited to see what unfolds over the next ten days!
**Mia Lawson:** Thank you for having me! It’s going to be an exciting time for film lovers everywhere!
