Influencers Stealing the Spotlight from Filmmakers

The Cannes Film Festival, a beacon of cinematic excellence, has long celebrated the best in visual storytelling. Critics arguing that influencers and non-film celebrities are overshadowing the true purpose of Cannes: to honor outstanding filmmakers and their craft.

Source: NDTV

Payal Kapadia 

This year, Payal Kapadia made history as the first Indian to win the prestigious Grand Prix award at Cannes. Her achievement, however, was almost eclipsed by the buzz surrounding influencers and celebrities who have little to do with the films showcased at the festival. Among them was Nancy Tyagi, a fashion influencer from Uttar Pradesh, who gained massive recognition for walking the red carpet in a self-designed pink gown. 

Source: The Week.

Cannes Invitations Can be bought

It turns out, entry to Cannes can be bought. While many renowned personalities receive invitations, anyone with the financial means can purchase a spot on the red carpet. This year, French media platform Brut, the official media partner, provided tickets and red carpet access to their “Brut Indian Squad,” which included influencers like Ayush Mehra, Namita Thapar, Viraj Ghelani, RJ Karishma, and others. For about ₹30 lakh, an influencer can walk the red carpet, often funded by sponsors eager to capitalize on the Cannes hype for content creation.

This practice has not gone unnoticed or uncriticized. Your one post on these filmmakers will make them reach a larger audience.”

The controversy has cast a shadow over this year’s festival, as influencers like Masoom Minawala, Ankush Bahuguna, Viraj Ghelani, and Niharika NM grabbed headlines. Critics argue that while Cannes has always been about glamour, the balance has tipped too far. The festival risks losing its identity as a celebration of cinema and becoming just another fashion show.

The debate continues to rage on social media and beyond, with many calling for a return to Cannes’ roots. Should the festival restrict its red carpet to those directly involved in the films? Or is there room for both filmmakers and influencers in the spotlight?