highlights of the fortnight

This year, the president of the jury at the Cannes Film Festival was a woman: Greta Gerwig, the director of Barbie. “I would like to point out that nocturnal professional meetings in the hotel rooms of all-powerful gentlemen are no longer part of the habits and customs of the Cannes vortex”, for her part declared the mistress of ceremonies, Camille Cottin. The scent of #MeToo also struck with Judith Godrèche, and the victims of sexual violence appearing in her film.

Iranian director Mohammad Rasoulof challenged his country on the red carpet. Escaped from prison to present his film, he held up photos of his two actors stuck in the country. A few days earlier, the Palestinian flag had turned into an evening dress, on the shoulders of actress Cate Blanchett. The Israeli-Palestinian conflict was also invited to the Croisette by female directors and peace warriors. The palm trees also saw happiness, notably with the troupe led by director Arthus. “Climbing the steps of Cannes, normally, it’s all the big stars. And we’re one of them, it’s so good”rejoiced one of the actors.

The Palme du panache was awarded to Francis Ford Coppola, once again in official competition at the age of 85, with Megalopolis. On the French side, Coralie Fargeat and her actress Demi Moore created a shock with The Substance, a horror film about the horrors of aging. Jacques Audiard also caused a sensation with a musical about a Mexican transsexual.