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Cannes film festival
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Cannes film festival
Cannes film festival A red carpet adorns the stairs at the entrance to the prestigious Cannes film festival in Cannes, France.

Cannes film festival

French film festival
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Also known as: Festival de Cannes
Written and fact-checked by
The Editors of Encyclopaedia Britannica
Encyclopaedia Britannica's editors oversee subject areas in which they have extensive knowledge, whether from years of experience gained by working on that content or via study for an advanced degree. They write new content and verify and edit content received from contributors.
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Last Updated: • Article History
Official name:
Festival de Cannes
Related Topics:
film festival

News •

Director Joung Yu-mi's 'Glasses' invited to Cannes Film Festival • Apr. 18, 2025, 3:33 AM ET (Korea Herald)
Gaza photojournalist Fatima Hassouna killed in a strike with 10 of her relatives • Apr. 17, 2025, 6:04 AM ET (Le Monde)
Cannes Directors’ Fortnight Unveils Selection • Apr. 15, 2025, 11:58 PM ET (The Hollywood Reporter)
Cannes Film Festival: The American Pavilion to Launch Inaugural “California Day” • Apr. 15, 2025, 6:04 AM ET (The Hollywood Reporter)
Cannes Film Festival sets lineup with Ari Aster, Wes Anderson and, yes, Spike Lee • Apr. 10, 2025, 11:07 AM ET (AP)

Cannes film festival, film festival held annually in Cannes, France. First held in 1946 for the recognition of artistic achievement, the festival came to provide a rendezvous for those interested in the art and influence of the movies. Like other film festivals, it became an international marketplace where producers and distributors could exchange ideas, view films, and sign contracts. The phenomenon of international coproduction arose at Cannes in the late 1940s. The festival was at times the site of artistic contention as well, as in 1958–59, when advocates and opponents of the French New Wave exchanged diatribes and manifestos.

(Read Martin Scorsese’s Britannica essay on film preservation.)

This article was most recently revised and updated by Chelsey Parrott-Sheffer.