The many festivals of cannes
Although we always talk about the Festival de Cannes as a singular, there are in fact a whole series of events grouped under the same banner. The main festival - the one that distributes the coveted Palme d'Or - is the big attraction for the media, as this is where the movies are showcased and premiered. Competition for an award is fierce, as is competition for media attention. In the sixties, this led to the explosion of photos of girls in bikinis - still referred to as starlets in French. But from zombie attacks on the Croisette to massive set re-constructions, no trick is missed by PR people.
There are 8 different awards for best film, actor, short, etc.
There are 8 different awards for best film, actor, short, etc.
Le quinzaine des realisateurs
It sounds cool in French, doesn't it? This is the Directors' Fortnight, originally set up in 1969 to flatter the ego of directors as auteurs and as a counterweight to the main festival which had been severely criticised for ignoring the social upheaval that France went through in 1968. It now shows more ambitious films, often from first or second-film directors as well as shorts and documentaries. Find out more here.
la cinefondation
This is another important but lesser-known event, which often boasts a prestigious jury (Jane Campion heads the just in 2013). It supports works of cinema in the world and contributes to the entry of new scriptwriters in the circle of the celebrities. The Cinéfondation was completed in 2000 with La Résidence and in 2005 L'Atelier, both of which focus on supporting the creation of new works.
un certain regard
This section was introduced in 1978 by festival director Gilles Jacob to present a score of films with all kind of visions and styles; "original and different" are the keywords. The line-up is made up of films from across the globe.
camera d'or
Set up in 1978, this award goes to first-time directors (although those that have produced student films are also allowed).
other awards
Alongside the main awards, various other bodies attribute awards according to their own criteria. These include the ecumenical award, the best Canine Performance, the International Federation of Film Critics Prize and the Queer Palm for LGBT performances.
There is also a Cannes Independent Film festival which is unrelated to the main festival and is surprisingly discreet about its activities.
There is also a Cannes Independent Film festival which is unrelated to the main festival and is surprisingly discreet about its activities.
The pan-african film festival
Totally unrelated to the Cannes Film Festival, the Festival International du film Panafricain is held in Cannes in April and is focused on films from across the pan-African community, notably the diaspora. In addition to films, it also showcases African music and fashion. Find out more here.
Canneseries
This new event in April is becoming a must-attend festival for fans of TV series. The selection is from across the world, with awards, gowns, the red steps and the whole shebang!
