On Saturday 14 May at the Cannes Film Market, French Minister for Culture Audrey Azoulay and head of the CNC Frédérique Bredin met up with film professionals on the occasion of the Rendez-vous du CNC. Through upbeat speeches, the two women succeeded in reassuring those present about the involvement of the French government in cinema and cultural diversity. As for the Cannes Film Festival, it remains a truly sacred time for cinema.

The moment was perfect. A day after the historic agreement on film distribution signed by French professionals, the so-called “pact of Cannes”, Audrey Azoulay proudly opened proceedings with a speech on French values and the positive cooperation among the film industry. “Diversity, solidarity and hospitality” are the values that enable France to be the beating heart of world cinema. And yes, if there exist any disagreements or issues, state-industry discussions show that it is possible to improve the system little by little. While acknowledging the legacy of her predecessors, the minister stressed the ongoing challenges to tackle: the modification of the French film agreement, the evolution of copyright to keep pace with digitisation, piracy… and many more that will follow soon with globalisation. “We need to keep up this spirit of Cannes for future reforms,” she said. And this spirit is all the more important because cinema and creation are effective means of fighting against radicalisation and censorship. They have to be strong. “Artists, filmmakers and technicians have this one role: to make artworks that challenge us through differentiation. We must be open to the world and to diversity,” insisted Azoulay, before concluding ceremoniously, “Vive le Festival et vive la liberté.”

“Each film created is an enrichment of the world,” Bredin summed up. The head of the CNC linked up her speech with that of the minister. She also highlighted the role of France in world cinema and stressed the fact that the country has to push on further in its spirit of openness. In a room filled with hundreds of professionals, she gave an effective speech, where the tax credit, growth, diversity and promotion were the key topics addressed.

At Cannes, France and cinema certainly go well together.