The 2024 Cannes Film Festival kicked off with a strong focus on women in cinema. The festival honored legendary actress Meryl Streep with the honorary Palme d'Or , celebrating her illustrious career. Streep, visibly moved by the recognition, acknowledged thinking her career was over before receiving this prestigious award. The festival also appointed esteemed filmmaker Greta Gerwig as the head of the jury , highlighting the importance of female voices in the industry.
The event brought together a host of notable personalities from the entertainment world. Anya Taylor-Joy’s press tour for her film "Furiosa" added a unique twist to the festival , garnering both attention and curiosity from the audience. Additionally, Hollywood luminaries like George Lucas and Heidi Klum joined Streep and Gerwig at the opening gala dinner, turning heads with their red carpet appearances .
Arab designers and filmmakers had a notable presence at Cannes, showcasing their talent and creative contributions to the global film industry. Streep donned earrings by Indian jeweler Deepti Sadhwani, adding a touch of international flair to her iconic fashion statement.
The festival's focus on women extended to the selection of films. "Animale," featured in the Critics' Week, tackled themes of bull running, adding depth and diversity to the cinematic lineup. Gerwig, in addressing the media, underscored how the presence of intimacy coordinators in the industry signals progress in the #MeToo movement.
The red carpet of Cannes glittered with an array of eye-catching fashion ensembles, with stars like Taylor-Joy, Streep, and Gerwig making style statements that garnered appreciation from fashion enthusiasts. The festival's commencement was marked by a heightened sense of celebration, as Streep’s emotional tribute underscored the festival's dedication to honoring influential female figures in the world of cinema .