The Johnny Depp controversy hijacks Cannes Film Festival 2023
The Cannes Film Festival, known for its glitz and glamour, is facing a storm of controversy as a social media campaign with the hashtag #CannesYouNot accuses the festival of celebrating abusers for over seven decades.
- The campaign, initiated by supporters of Amber Heard, aims to shed light on the issue of alleged abusers being protected and promoted within the film industry. The opening of Johnny Depp's new film, Jeanne du Barry, at Cannes has fuelled the debate even further.
As tensions rise, the festival finds itself in the midst of a contentious and polarising controversy.
A history of allegations
Eve Barlow, a journalist and activist and a close friend of Amber Heard, spearheaded the #CannesYouNot campaign by sharing the hashtag and expressing her discontent with Cannes's support of alleged abusers.
- Barlow drew attention to several prominent figures, including Depp, Roman Polanski, Harvey Weinstein, Woody Allen, Gerard Depardieu, and Luc Besson, who have been associated with the festival despite facing accusations of abuse.
- Supporters of the campaign argue that by opening the festival with Depp's film, Cannes is sending a message that it supports individuals accused of misconduct.
The CANNES FILM FESTIVAL is notorious for celebrating men who have a history of violence, including sexual assault.
— ꧁𝙻𝚎𝚊𝚟𝚎𝙷𝚎𝚊𝚛𝚍𝙰𝚕𝚘𝚗𝚎꧂ (@LeaveHeardAlone) May 10, 2023
The festival seems proud of this, as though they are champions of art for looking past crimes such as rape, domestic violence, assault & child sexual assault to… pic.twitter.com/JOPdTEURpf
The hypocrisy of Cannes
Proponents of the #CannesYouNot movement highlight the apparent hypocrisy of the Cannes Film Festival. They argue that while the festival claims to take allegations of abuse seriously and has implemented anti-discrimination and anti-abuse policies, it contradicts these claims by featuring Depp in a prominent role. They believe that this move undermines the progress made by the #MeToo movement and perpetuates a culture of protecting powerful individuals accused of abuse within the film industry.
The bans and online activism
The city of Cannes has banned protests during the festival, prohibiting physical demonstrations against the festival's decisions. However, the organisers of the #CannesYouNot campaign assert that they cannot be prevented from expressing their dissent online.
- While the campaign's initial focus was on Depp, its broader objective is to shed light on the larger issue of alleged abusers being shielded and insulated by the film industry. The online protest continues to gain momentum through various social media platforms.
For 76 years, the #CannesFilmFestival has been a stage that celebrates the work of artists, but it has also supported sexual abusers including Johnny Depp, Roman Polanski, Harvey Weinstein, Woody Allen, Gerard Depardieu, and Luc Besson. pic.twitter.com/0UNGzUgfLu
— 🇺🇦 Hire Survivors Hollywood ™ 🇺🇦 (@hiresurvivors) May 17, 2023
Cannes's defence
Thierry Fremaux, the chief of the Cannes Film Festival, has pushed back against the criticism, vehemently denying the accusation that the festival supports abusers. Speaking at the festival's first press conference, Fremaux challenged journalists, asking why they would attend the festival if they believed it was a haven for rapists.
While acknowledging the controversies surrounding Depp and other accused individuals, Fremaux defended the festival's decision to showcase Depp's film, asserting that the freedom of thought and expression within a legal framework should prevail.
A quick compilation of Johnny Depp receiving love & adoration from fans at Cannes, and with his fellow cast mates on the red carpet.
— LillyJane916 (@LillyJane916) May 16, 2023
Check out Thierry Fremaux dancing at the top of the steps & the embrace he gives Johnny❤️ {end of video}#Cannes2023#JeanneDuBarry#YesYouCannes pic.twitter.com/LgnFs0gWKm
Depp's comeback and mixed reactions
The premiere of Jeanne du Barry marked a significant moment for Depp, whose star power has diminished amid the allegations, having received an enthusiastic seven-minute standing ovation at the film's premiere, with audience members expressing their support for his performance as King Louis XV.
However, reactions remain divided, with many questioning the festival's decision to give Depp such prominence considering the ongoing controversy surrounding him.
Johnny Depp is met with a rapturous standing ovation as he enters the Palais for the premiere of ‘Jeanne du Barry.’ #Cannes2023 pic.twitter.com/C9LVJ6UGvb
— Ramin Setoodeh (@RaminSetoodeh) May 16, 2023
The future of Cannes and the film industry
The controversy surrounding Depp's inclusion in the Cannes Film Festival raises broader questions about the film industry's response to allegations of abuse. Critics argue that by giving accused individuals a platform, the industry perpetuates a culture that prioritises power and fame over accountability.
As the festival progresses, the debate will likely intensify, forcing the film industry and festivals like Cannes to confront these difficult issues and reevaluate their selection processes and stance on alleged abusers.
Moving forward, it remains to be seen how the Cannes Film Festival and other major film events will address the growing calls for accountability and transparency. The controversy surrounding Depp's presence at Cannes underscores the need for a thorough examination of the industry's treatment of abuse allegations and the responsibility of festivals to promote artists who adhere to ethical standards.
Ultimately, the #CannesYouNot campaign serves as a reminder that social media has become a powerful tool for amplifying voices and holding institutions accountable. While physical protests may be banned, online activism continues to provide a platform for individuals to express their concerns and advocate for change.
As the Cannes Film Festival unfolds, it is unfortunately unlikely that the Depp controversy will cast a shadow over the event.
It is crucial for all stakeholders, including festivals, filmmakers, and audiences, to engage in meaningful dialogue and take steps towards fostering an environment that prioritises safety, inclusivity, and respect for all.
To know more about what role the Cannes Film Festival plays in the annual awards race, check out How To Win An Oscar
ALSO READ: The Johnny Depp-Amber Heard Case: A timeline