The Cannes Film Festival is one of the most prestigious and glamorous events in the film industry. Held annually in the picturesque city of Cannes on the French Riviera, this festival attracts movie enthusiasts, celebrities, and industry professionals from around the globe. While it may seem exclusive to the elite, the festival offers an incredible opportunity for the general public to immerse themselves in the magic. Let’s delve into the joys of attending the Cannes Film Festival what to expect from a fan’s perspective and discover useful tips on how to make the most of it.
Cannes Film Festival What to Expect
Immerse Yourself in the Electric Atmosphere
As a member of the public attending the Cannes Film Festival, you will find yourself surrounded by an electrifying atmosphere filled with anticipation and excitement. Taking place in May, the festival bathes the picturesque city in sunlight, creating a unique ambiance with its sun-drenched beaches, palm-lined promenades, and opulent venues. However, don’t be surprised if the local saying holds true, as Cannes is also known for rain during the Film Festival.
Wherever you go in the heart of Cannes, be it the famous seafront boulevard la Croisette or the surrounding streets, you will find yourself amidst bustling crowds. Among them, you’ll encounter smartly-dressed film industry professionals networking and making deals, locals going about their daily lives, tourists hoping to catch a glimpse of a celebrity fresh from the beach, and elegantly dressed individuals in evening wear (even in the middle of the day) heading to red carpet events.
This lively atmosphere is further enhanced by hordes of paparazzi, amateur photographers, and security personnel, as well as fancy cars and buses maneuvering through the throngs.
It may seem chaotic at times, but if your intention is to catch a glimpse of the Festival’s essence, then embrace the energy, indulge in the beautiful surroundings, and bask in the glamorous vibes.
The Enchanting Red Carpet Experience
The red carpet at Cannes is where true magic unfolds (witness this great moment between Phoebe Waller-Bridge and 16 year old French actor Ethann Isidore at the premiere of Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny below). As a member of the public, you have the opportunity to witness stars ascending the legendary steps at the Palais des Festivals, provided you have the stamina (and a height advantage helps!).
To secure a prime viewing spot, arrive very early along the road opposite the red carpet, where you might catch a glimpse of the stars as they exit their vehicles. And you might just be in with a chance of a selfie or autograph from here.
Though you might also find yourself behind a bunch of very organised super-fans on step ladders if you’re not so lucky!
Alternatively, position yourself to the left of the steps (when facing them), an area reserved for the public. However, keep in mind that your view of the red carpet will be mostly obstructed by the official photographers.
You’ll be mainly watching the action on a screen and only see the stars in the flesh when they arrive at the top of the steps for a photocall.
While watching the stars in person is limited, the overall experience, hearing the music and the Emcee, is worth the wait. Plan for a long haul, expect a minimum of 2-3 hours standing in the hot sun (or rain), so be sure to bring water, snacks, and a comfortably empty bladder! If you’re up for the challenge, you’ll find a lively atmosphere filled with camaraderie among fellow celebrity-spotters.
Screenings and Premieres
Although screenings of highly anticipated films and world premieres at the Cannes Film Festival (eg Wall Street 2 with Michael Douglas and Shia LaBeouf in 2010 below) are exclusive to industry insiders, there are ways for the general public to enjoy a cinematic experience.
The free Cinema de la Plage, located on the beach in an unmissable and unique setting, showcases a program primarily composed of classic and crowd-pleasing films. Due to its popularity, securing one of the comfortable deckchairs requires arriving very early. Bring a picnic and prepare for a magical evening under the stars.
For arthouse film enthusiasts, there’s another avenue to explore. The Directors’ Fortnight, known as Le Quinzaine des Cinéastes, presents a parallel selection of films that highlights the most “singular and visionary practices in contemporary cinema”. (From its website).
These screenings often feature cast and crew members participating in Q&A sessions (cast and director of Russian film Grace below). Watching a film in one of the official theaters accredited to the Festival, surrounded by enthusiastic cinephiles, is a thrilling experience.
Tickets are available on the day at La Malmaison on the Croisette or through the Festival website, (where you have to create an account). Sales open no earlier than four days ahead of the screening.
Spotting Celebrities: The Thrill of the Hunt
Spotting celebrities at the Cannes Film Festival is an exhilarating adventure. While access might be limited compared to industry professionals, there are still opportunities to catch a glimpse of the hottest names in the global film industry. (Leonardo DiCaprio below).
Of course, the Festival also attracts big names in sports, music (Robbie Williams below), media, and these days TikTok and Instagram stars.
In addition to the red carpet (Harrison Ford and Mads Mikkelsen below), keep a keen eye out for celebrity sightings around festival venues such as photocall locations on the Croisette, hotels, and restaurants, especially beachside establishments.
Popular places where celebrities have been spotted include the Hotel Martinez, the Majestic Barrière, JW Marriott, and the Carlton Hotel. If you notice a crowd gathering outside a hotel, chances are a star is about to arrive or depart. The anticipation and excitement are part of the fun, as rumors circulate and the actual celebrity may differ from the initial buzz.
Whether you enjoy people-watching or simply revel in the spectacle, observing the scene outside a hotel is an integral part of the Festival experience. Prepare to witness a variety of sights, from outrageous costumes, a parade of luxury cars, shoppers laden with designer bags from the Croisette’s high-end stores, and stunning individuals donning glamorous gowns to the occasional wardrobe malfunction or tiny dog adorned with sparkles. The list is endless.
Attending the Cannes Film Festival as a fan offers a thrilling and unforgettable experience. From watching screenings of beloved films under the balmy night sky to witnessing the glamour of the red carpet, the festival resounds in superlatives.
Exploring the beautiful city of Cannes and keeping an eye out for celebrity sightings further heightens the excitement surrounding this prestigious event. Embrace the cinematic energy, create memories that will last a lifetime, and revel in the allure of the Cannes Film Festival!
Related Reading
Movies in France – How to Find a Film in English
Please PIN for later!
