FilmfestivalsTV Videoblog

International Village

Behind the Palais des Festivals and lining the coast, one can find the International Village: a grouping of pavilions from countries around the world. This year, there are many countries participating in the Festival’s International Village.
The American Pavilion is the largest and the only one to charge its members for entry. The Village has a comfortable edge where people from all over the world can go to feel as if they are at home. The Irish Pavilion is always lively with entertainment and welcomes all visitors. No matter what the day, or the weather, one can always find a good time at the Village.

Ladders

Walking along the croisette, I noticed there were dozens of chained ladders lining the barriers in front of the Palais des Festivals. The ladders belong to eager visitors who want to capture the best photos possible of their favorite stars. During the day, it looks like an abandonned painters post. However, at night, the area is transformed into a haven of amatuer photographers amongst flashing pictures. From day one of the Festival until now, there have been ladders on top of ladders and I'm surprised that I haven't seen a catfight! Well, I guess there's enough stars to go around here at the Festival.

"Troma" in Cannes

Although I hate to give them more publicity, Troma Entertainment is a difficult group to ignore in Cannes. Everyday, boasting their slogan of “30 Years of Reel Independence,” members of Troma Entertainment tromp up and down the Croisette wearing bizarre outfits and blaring their name over loud-speakers. Slowly, the entire city has become plastered with their bumper stickers: " I Love Tromaville High School." Based in New York City, Troma Entertainment produces (very) low budget movies often involving blood, guts and gore! They have two scheduled screenings at the Festival: Devoured: The Legend of Alfred Packer and Parts of the Family.

Transportation in Cannes

While the population of Cannes triples during the Film Festival it is surprising that the number of buses in the city remains the same.  Visitors to Cannes are forced to wait at bus stations as the buses don't run according to schedule and are then squeezed into over packed vehicles.  It is a shame that the city hasn't spent the money to develop this vital transportation system as it would surely leave tourists with more positive sentiments.  Of course it doesn't help that a number of bus drivers have decided to strike today in protest of the governments request to work during "Pentecote" - traditionally a national holiday.

A Rainy Day in Cannes

Today we woke to rain softly falling from the grey sky.  The weather in Cannes has unfortunately taken a turn for the worst however, the mood at the Festival and in the city remains high.  People have not been deterred by the rain and continue to form long lines outside the Palais waiting for tickets to this afternoon's viewing of such movies as "Pauly Shore is Dead."  The local weather man promises for a sunnier day tomorrow!

V.I.P. Terrace

With a truly high spirit, I climbed the stairs to what would be the most beautiful view of the French Rivera in Cannes. Across from the Palais des Festivals, the V.I.P. Terrace has a 360° view. From the terrace, I was able to see the beaches, the Mediterranean, the Suquet, the Croisette, and the best view of the red carpet at the Palais des Festivals in town. The view from the top was amazing and I loved the tranquil aura that the staff exuded. The V.I.P. Terrace has promise to be one of the hippest spots on the Rivera yet.

IFQ-ITN Beach Party

While walking down the Croisette, I was handed a flier to an exclusive beach party for IFQ Magazine and ITN Distribution. It was fun to be on the beach and to meet so many up-and-coming members of the film industry. I was able to meet a star, Tamer Werfalli, of one of the market films entitled “Forbidden Fruits.” The British version of “America’s Next Top Model” television show was also spotted at the party with video cameras following close behind them. It was a fun party and my friends and I enjoyed hanging out on Maema beach.

Le Palais

Lauren, Eleanor and Candace pose in front of the Palais de Festivals in a rare, quiet moment.  This year’s Festival poster celebrates the famous “tapis rouge” known around the world for the best star sightings. The red carpet is essential for any film festival because it symbolizes the elite in this business. Anyone would jump at the chance just to step foot on it

Cannes Transformed

The city of Cannes has transformed itself from the calm sea-side haven to a bustling international port for the Film Industry.  While the Cannoix (local Cannes residents) hide in their homes from the throngs of tourists, eager visitors line the Croisette for a glimpse of their favorite star.  Feeding into the tourists attractions, we walked the famous sidewalk of handprints and placed our hands in the cemented palms of our favorite celebrities: Marie DuBois and Mickey Mouse!

L'Entree des Artistes

 

With the expectation of seeing someone famous, we hung out at "l'Entree des Artistes" or Artist's Entrance all afternoon with straining necks and hopeful hearts. To our dismay, we didn't run into Tom Cruise, Halle Berry, or George Lucas, but we now have a new appreciation for the behind-the-scenes organization of the Festival. We felt like movie stars as the cameras flashed in our dazzled eyes. For a moment we thought we saw Leo, but it turned out to be a woman with short hair! Even though we were a little disappointed at the lack of star sightings, we are amazed at how much we have learned and how much Cannes has transformed in the last two days.