Already crowned with her two Oscars, Australian actress Cate Blanchet has been granted the great honor of presiding over the 71st Cannes Film Festival. At the age of 48, she became the 11th woman to hold this major role.
"We are very pleased to welcome a rare and singular artist, whose talent and convictions irrigate cinema screens as well as theater stages. Our conversations this fall promise us that she will be a committed President, a passionate woman and a generous spectator."
So said the president of the Festival Pierre Lescure and the general delegate of the event Thierry Frémaux. If this choice can be understood from an artistic point of view (the career of the actress being quite remarkable), it is especially in terms of symbol that this choice is strong. Recall it: the actress had not minced her words during the Weinstein case, considering that a man of her stature should be accountable for his actions. In particular, it stated:
"We all love to be sexy, but that doesn't mean we want to b***** with you!"
It is therefore a committed president who will succeed the great Pedro Almodovar, for a ceremony that will last from 8 to 19 May 2018. This decision is significant and demonstrates a desire on the part of the Festival to show its support against the harassment that women suffer on a daily basis. A purely symbolic act certainly, but which has the merit of demonstrating a clear position on the violence endured by women. The specific choice of Cate Blanchett is not trivial. After all, she is not just one of the many voices that have spoken out against harassment. She is especially one of the first people to have publicly indignant at the behavior of Harvey Weinstein (despite the fact that she has already collaborated with the guy). In addition, she is at the origin, with other famous actresses (such as Nathalie Portman), of the foundation "Time's Up". This collective will have the necessary funds to support women and men who are victims of sexual harassment. Here is an association that may have a hell of a job…
As comfortable in auteur films as in blockbusters, it is logical that Cate Blanchett assumes the prestigious role of President of the Jury for this 71st Cannes Film Festival. Can we expect a President as committed as the organizers suggest? Answer from May 8th!
