Preparations are underway for the start of the Cannes Film Festival, which begins on Tuesday. Despite the fickle weather and potential disruptions, a sense of calm prevails on the Croisette, with technicians and security personnel milling up and down the promenade. The red carpet is partially rolled out, and there is enough activity to indicate that this is no ordinary Sunday on the Riviera. However, the festival may face challenges from strikes by the Writers Guild of America and France’s pension reform protests.
As of now, there are no significant blockages on the Croisette, but a section of the sidewalk leading up to the Palais has been barricaded for independent works. Festival organizers have been contacted to determine if this will affect foot traffic to the gala screenings.
One of the highlights of the festival will be the world premiere of Disney/Lucasfilm’s “Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny,” which will be shown out of competition on Thursday. The Carlton Hotel, which recently underwent a seven-year renovation, features a massive promotional installation for the film. The hotel’s Carlton Pier is also decked out with a billboard for Sony/PlayStation’s “Gran Turismo,” which releases in August.
The Grand Hotel has undergone a facelift and has been renamed the Mondrian, with a new esplanade and interior, as well as a Mr. Nakamoto restaurant. However, guests with dogs will not be allowed access to the grass unless they are staying at the hotel.
Other companies, such as WME Independent, Protagonist Pictures, and Pathé, are already flying their banners in preparation for the festival. Despite the unpredictable skies and potential disruptions, the Cannes Film Festival is poised to once again showcase the best in international cinema.
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