Hello from the Auteur Edit, a roundup of what’s keeping me sane, inspired and awestruck in the madness that is the media arts business. The Cannes Film Festival has officially come to a close so, I couldn’t let this week go by without talking about what a lot of people seem to be talking about regarding the France-based festival. So, this week’s list this time has a theme — it’s a reflection of the Francophile in me. And, my video commentary — available to paid subscribers —is my take on all that finger-wagging happening outside of the screenings and on the red carpet.
The list below is available to free subscribers. The separate bonus video commentary above — is available to paid subscribers.
The gear. This first item on the list isn’t French per se (it’s made in China) but I’m thinking about all those Paps and some of the tools they use to get the most out of their snaps while in Cannes. One word — Ronin. You better believe this DJI RS 2 was in heavy rotation. The lightweight (carbon fiber), super smooth, low-profile gimbal is the go-to stabilizer for filmmakers and photographers who need to stay nimble. Loaded with sooo many features — if you aren’t using it already — add it to your cart now. “Film more pack less” is DJI’s messaging for this — and that about sums it up nicely.
The films. Social commentary is a first on my list genre when it comes to checking out independent films and artists. And this one is worth a look.
It didn’t take the first prize but the winner of the Grand Prix Prize — the second most prestigious Cannes award — was “All We Imagine As Light” and is now on my watchlist. Female-directed, it makes history as the first Indian film to win in 30 years. Director Payal Kapadia, sets the backdrop in Mumbai, India with undertones of female independence as its foundation. They’re calling it..
“a delicate triple portrait of women who have devoted their lives to helping others, but have received precious little in return in terms of money, status or freedom.”
As for the rest of the lineup — highlights and low lights — EuroNews provides the most succinct review and roundup of Cannes with its short recap of winners, losers and general takeaways from the festival’s 77th year.
The footwear. Okay, these aren’t necessarily made for the red carpet — unless you get them in gold — but they are the low sandal I’m eyeing as a summer staple. They come from everyone’s favorite French retailer, have an attractive woven design, come in a range of colors — including gold — and the quality is what it should be in a shoe. They’re not only casual enough for everyday, the low heel suggests comfort (more than your average heel) and they add a nice touch to any work attire.
The food. This is another — not really French — cheat. We’ll call it French-adjacent because every Francophile knows that pastries are an essential part of the diet. Chocolate croissants? Yes. Donuts — um not so sure. But the “Cronut” — the best of both — is what Paris Baguette is known for. And that makes it French enough for me. The Nutella-filled version is one I’ve been wanting to try. I finally had an opportunity to split one while out for brunch with a gal-pal this past weekend. The decadent dessert was worth every single bite for a sugary splurge. If it makes you feel any better — I did — it’s fried in grape seed oil.
Getting outside of Cannes (Paris anyone?) Parisian Chic: A Style Guide by Ines de la Fressange — is what you need to get around the capital city. The author is a French icon in the fashion industry, and her take on what to do and where to go when in Paris is a treasure trove. From hotels and restaurants to capsule wardrobe haunts and decor finds — it has over 350 useful color illustrations. It’s not new but also not out of date. I’ve had this volume for years — yet find myself still flipping through it often and finding inspiration on a regular basis. With its ageless style recommendations, luxurious beauty routines and essential tour routes, I’ve lost count of how many note tabs I have sticking out from the pages. Soft cover binding makes it easy to carry or toss in a tote for your next trip to the city of light.
For getting fragrant. We all like to smell divine but if you’re like me and can’t wear pretty much any perfume due to allergies and sensitive skin — this is not only an amazing smelling fragrance but I can apply it with no issues or outbreaks and it wears well even if you don’t share my sensitivities. Verbena Eau du Toilette blends in hints of lemon for a light, citrusy vibe.
In addition to the regular 3 oz. size it comes in a purse sized roll-on, which I have, and it’s great for a quick touch up on the wrists or behind the ears. I love the French beauty brand L’Occitane en Provence for so many reasons — but the best part aside from the parfume, is knowing that they are actively working with French farmers to source ingredients that are as sustainable as possible.
That’s another Auteur Edit. I hope you found something useful. Paid subscribers can access my bonus commentary video above — where I opine on a timely industry topic. In this case what role — if any — racism played on the red carpet at Cannes. Thanks again for your support.
