Actor Rahul Bhat, whose films have been officially selected at the Cannes Film Festival twice, has shared his disappointment over how the event seems to have shifted its focus from cinema to style. In a conversation with Brut India, he reflected on how the festival’s essence has changed, and many online seem to agree with him.
Rahul highlighted that his appearances at Cannes were rooted in the merit of his films. “People come here to take pictures on the red carpet. But I’m proudly saying that I have walked the red carpet. Shouldn’t that be of some value? Instead, I’m having to point out the difference and tell people I was part of official selections.”
He also spoke about the struggle to be recognised for the right reasons, “I walked the red carpet for real, not for fashion. Not for taking pictures, not for PR machinery. I walked the real red carpet. Two of my movies (Ugly, Kennedy) have been (premiered) here. What to do? I am forced to tell this to people, but I don’t know how to blow my own trumpet,” he said.
Online, many say Cannes has lost its prestige
With influencers and celebrities making frequent appearances on the red carpet, the festival’s image seems to be shifting, and not everyone is happy about it. “Not relevant anymore now…. before it used to be film exclusive, now anyone can go there so it’s lost its significance,” wrote one Instagram user. Another added, “It’s time Cannes realises that it’s a movie’s Mecca not a pop gathering.”
The sentiment was echoed across several comments, with some calling the festival a “circus.” “It’s sad to see such a prestigious film festival turn into a circus,” said one. Another remarked, “Cannes has turned into a circus ! So sad.” One even likened it to another major fashion event: “They have turned a film festival into a ramp walk , met gala knock off at this point.” A user even joked, “Soon influencers will go to Noble Prize ceremony too…and when it will happen we must know that the end is near.”
