Hollywood Stayed Home, Jordan Firstman Scored
Variety • • entertainment
Key Points:
- The 2024 Cannes Film Festival was notably subdued, with fewer stars, breakout films, and Hollywood blockbusters, reflecting broader challenges in the entertainment industry.
- AI technology took center stage, with jury member Demi Moore advocating for filmmakers to embrace AI despite controversy, as many films used AI to reduce costs and enhance production.
- Major Hollywood studios largely skipped the festival, partly due to budget concerns and fear of harsh French critical reception that could harm a film’s success.
- Jordan Firstman’s directorial debut, "Club Kid," was a standout, receiving critical acclaim and sparking a $17 million bidding war, highlighting fresh talent amid the festival’s quieter atmosphere.
- The ongoing global conflicts, especially in Ukraine and Gaza, influenced both the festival’s mood and film selections, with many stars showing solidarity with Palestinians and several films addressing historical and contemporary wars.