Javier Bardem, Mark Ruffalo, Ken Loach, and a growing roster of international filmmakers have lent their names to a petition condemning what they see as a deepening far-right influence in the French film sector through media mogul Vincent Bolloré and his flagship broadcaster Canal+.

The open letter, first launched by a French collective called Zapper Bolloré and initially signed by around 600 local industry figures, has now expanded to more than 3,500 signatories. High-profile additions like Javier Bardem and Mark Ruffalo have amplified its reach, pushing the debate far beyond France. Cannes has become the central stage where these concerns are being voiced.

At the heart of the petition is Vincent Bolloré’s growing media influence, particularly Canal+’s planned 34 percent stake in the cinema chain UGC. Critics argue that such a move could concentrate power across financing, distribution, and exhibition within a single corporate structure. The concern is not only economic control but also the potential shaping of narratives through a shifting editorial stance.

Tensions escalated further when Canal+ CEO Maxime Saada publicly stated he would not collaborate with professionals who signed the petition. That response transformed the issue into a visible standoff, casting a shadow over festival proceedings. What began as an industry warning has now evolved into a defining conversation about the future direction of European cinema.

At the same time, Cannes continues to spotlight breakthrough stories that underline the global reach of filmmaking, this time from Nepal.

A landmark moment signals new horizons for Nepali cinema

Elephants in the Fog has marked a historic milestone by becoming the first Nepali feature selected for the Un Certain Regard section at the 79th Cannes Film Festival. Directed by Abinash Bikram Shah, the film received a standing ovation lasting over seven minutes, reflecting a deeply engaged audience response. The reception placed the film among the most talked-about entries in its category.

The Un Certain Regard section, established to highlight distinctive voices, provided a fitting platform for the film’s debut. Its inclusion signals a broader recognition of emerging industries that have often remained on the margins of global festivals. The sustained applause was seen as both an artistic acknowledgment and a cultural breakthrough.

For Nepal’s film sector, the moment carries long-term significance. Backed by co-production partnerships spanning France, Germany, Brazil, and Norway, the project demonstrates how local storytelling can resonate internationally without losing authenticity. The response at Cannes suggests a growing appetite for diverse narratives, positioning Nepali cinema within a wider global conversation.

What do you think about the growing backlash at Cannes and the breakthrough success of Elephants in the Fog? Let us know in the comments.

Written by

Pratham Gurung

Edited by

Itti Mahajan