Festival Brings More Than Just Stars

The season has finally kicked off with the arrival of the 62nd annual Festival de Cannes, adding even moreexcitement to the already lively Croisette. As the air is filled with anticipation, fans anxiously crowd around hotels such as Martinez, Majestic, and the Carlton in hopes of catching a glimpse of the stars.

Elizabeth Banks, from 2008's hilarious comedy, Role Models, graced the streets of Cannes with her prescence, causing a frenzy of paparazzi and fans.  The famous French actor/composer, Charles Aznavour, was also seen entering the Carlton yesterday hours before the premier of Disney Pixar's new animated film Up!

If by chance, you do not spot any of the rich and famous, guests of Cannes can still be entertained
by the ongoing ambiance of the stretch of walk way between the Palais and the Carlton Hotel. From dancing street performers to a variety of sidewalk artists capturing the scene, there is rarely a dull moment on the croisette. Even the adverisements strewn along the avenue and on the sides of hotels serve as entertainment.

This year the Carlton is decked from head to toe, displaying billboards of various films including Quinton Terrintino's Inglorious Bastards, and Stephen Sommers, G.I. Joe: The Rise of the Cobra. To the side of the Carlton, guarding the outdoor cafe, stands a larger than life statue from the movie Transformers. It too adds thrill to the festival. 

All in all it looks as if this year's Festival de Cannes will be one filled charisma and charm. Whether you're a movie-goer lucky enough to walk the Red Carpet, or just a passerby taking in the scene, the events of this following week will surely be unforgettable.

Written by Tara-Ashleigh Brennan and Breanna Butler