CANNES, FRANCE – As the 78th Cannes Film Festival unfolds in its usual glamour, the spotlight isn’t just on films — but also on influencers. This growing trend has sparked debate about whether Cannes is still about cinema or simply a stage for viral fame.
One voice adding to the conversation is former Bollywood actress and humanitarian Somy Ali, who believes the festival has lost much of its original purpose.
“Selfies Have Replaced Substance”
Somy Ali, founder of the NGO No More Tears, shared her concern over Cannes’ changing identity.
“It’s become a box to check off for every actor,” she said. “The pressure to be there has taken over the love for film. Now it’s all about selfies on the red carpet — not the art.”
“I’d Still Go If Invited”
Ali admits the irony in her statement.
“I’d be a hypocrite to say I wouldn’t go,” she said. “No one wants to miss the opportunity. But that’s what it’s come to — just being seen is now a necessity.”
Social Media’s Growing Grip
Ali blames platforms like Instagram for shifting cultural values.
“The Gram has killed everything genuine,” she said. “Even tragedies are turned into content. It’s a sad reality for artists and the youth.”
She warned this is the legacy being left for future generations. “When vulnerability disappears, we’re left with a scary, shallow world.”
Cannes at a Crossroads
Once a prestigious showcase of global cinema, Cannes now faces questions about its direction. As stars and influencers flood the red carpet, voices like Somy Ali’s remind us of what the festival used to stand for — and what it might be losing.
About the author
Neha Nikharge is Assistant Editor at Awesome TV and a writer for AWSM Times. Neha covers Bollywood, OTT releases, celebrity interviews and pop culture for South Asian audiences in the US and around the world, and has written more than 4,500 stories for Awesome TV. Story tips and corrections: hello@awesometv.com.
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