The Cannes Film Festival, known for its high-quality cinema and movie star glamour, is no stranger to controversy. From scandals involving the films screened to press conference blunders, Cannes has seen it all. Notable controversies include “The Brown Bunny,” “Jeanne Du Barry,” and Lars Von Trier’s infamous Nazi comments at a press conference. In 1968, the festival was canceled halfway through due to political turmoil in France. Francis Ford Coppola caused a stir in 1979 when he compared finishing “Apocalypse Now” to the Vietnam War. In 1996, David Cronenberg’s “Crash” received a Special Jury Prize after being divisive among jury members. Then in 1999, Cronenberg, serving as Jury president, caused rumors by awarding the Palme to “Rosetta” instead of the frontrunner “All About My Mother.” Despite the controversies, the Cannes Film Festival remains a prestigious event showcasing the best in cinema and attracting industry insiders and film fans from around the world.
Amid ongoing industry-related drama at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival, IndieWire reflects on the most notorious controversies in the festival’s history. These controversies highlight the festival’s historical significance and the impact of political unrest, artistic differences, and scandalous moments that have shaped the festival’s legacy. The diversity of opinions and strong emotions surrounding these controversies reflect the festival’s commitment to pushing boundaries and sparking discussions about the art of cinema.
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