The Film Festival: Dream and Reality

Understanding the Festival de Cannes helps whether you're attending or avoiding it.

Festival Facts

- Usually mid-May (check dates) - City transforms completely - Prices triple or more - Crowds everywhere - Incredible atmosphere

Accessing Festival Magic

With Accreditation: - Industry professionals only - Advance application required - Different access levels - Still very competitive

Without Accreditation: - Cinéma de la Plage: Free beach screenings - Festival atmosphere throughout city - Star-spotting possible - Red carpet viewing (very crowded)

Smart Alternatives: - Cannes Film Market screenings - Directors' Fortnight (parallel festival) - Critics' Week events - City-organized free screenings

Surviving Festival Season

- Book accommodation previous year - Expect transportation delays - Restaurants need reservations - Beaches extremely crowded - Consider day trips from Nice