CANNES FILM FESTIVAL 2012
By: Hope Wilkos, Writer/Blogger Photographer: George Whylie Videographer: Maxine NolanTo attend the Cannes Film Festival is almost like a dream come true for film enthusiasts. It is in a beautiful land although a bit of rain and dismal weather conditions could not damper the spirits of filmgoers on the last day of the festival in Cannes, France. Celebrities, actors, media and film buffs flocked to the annual event held from May 16th through May 27th, 2012.
This film festival previews new films of all genres from countries around the world. Since 1946, this event has been at the top of its class attracting a diverse and prestigious crowd. Unlike Tribeca Film Festival and Palm Beach International Film Festival, it is an ‘invitation only’ event held at the romantic Palais des Festivals et des Congres and this year marked the 65th Annual Cannes Film Festival.
This is the perfect opportunity for aspiring filmmakers and directors and producers to introduce their work and become recognized and praised for their efforts in the cinema industry.
The top prize for this year went to Michael Haneke’s “Amour”, a film about love and death. Haneke, an Austrian director, proudly walks away with top honors for the second time.
Prize winners were chosen from 22 contenders by a select jury of well-known and experienced judges consisting of Italian director, Nanni Moretti, actors Ewan McGregor and Diane Kruger, director Alexander Payne and designer Jean Paul Gaultier.
Second place grand prize went to the Italian satire “Reality” and the comedy of “The Angels’ Share” won third prize.
Best Director was Mexico’s Carlos Reygadas for his film “Post Tenebras Lux”.
Best Actor went to Mads Mikkelsen who plays a child abuser in “The Hunt”. Mads certainly wowed the judges and the audience with a breathtaking performance.
Two women won the category of Best Actress and they were Cristina Flutur and Cosmina Stratan starring in the Romanian movie, “Beyond the Hills”.
Best Screenplay went to Cristian Mungiu for “Beyond the Hills”, a drama of love and faith in a Romanian monastery.
But this film festival is not just fixated on film. The glamour and glitz of the atmosphere and the setting bring out the beauty on the Red Carpet as some of the best-known stars attend to promote their films and view all the festival has to offer.
Cameras caught such stars as Naomi Watts, Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie, Nicole Kidman, Robert Pattinson, Kristen Stewart, Reese Witherspoon and more. Gowns were voluptuous and sparkling, embellished and sheer, tight-fitting and flared. Hair was worn long and glamorous or pulled into a stylish updo. There was certainly lots of lace and feathers, flowers and Swarovski crystals.
Designers whose fashions wowed the onlookers were Roberto Cavalli, Emilio Pucci, Givenchy, Gucci, Marchesa, Dolce & Gabbana and Elie Saab. Colors shone brilliantly and even the darkest and neutral colors took on a brightness.
Models were out in full force in form-grabbing gowns with sensational smiles and an air of confidence to match.
Some of the gracious corporate sponsors included Chopard, Loreal, hp, Renault, Akamai and Electrolux.
Just like the film festivals that have preceded it, the Cannes Film Festival is all about great films, emerging talent, encouragement to follow your dream and your passion and enrichment of the arts. It is an event that is cherished all year round.
PHOTO CREDITS: Getty Images
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