Learn french in France

With it’s azuline waters and glamorous jet-setters, it’s no wonder that Cannes is a popular tourist destination on the French Riviera. At less than 43 km from Nice, Cannes provides a platform for tourists and locals wanting an insight into the lives of the rich and famous. Just how glitzy it is can be seen everywhere you look – from the extravagant yachts along the Cannes coast, to the luxurious boutiques that line Rue d’Antibes and Rue Meynadier along the infamous La Crossette.

This city dazzles for 12 days mid- May as crowds from all over the world arrive in Cannes to partake in the legendary Cannes Film Festival and mingle with Hollywood royalty. Since its founding date in 1939, the festival has been attracting record number of visitors; the town’s usual population of 70 200 residents soars to 200 000 inhabitants.

An average of 20 films compete in The Palais des Festivals on Esplanade Georges Pompidou, for the prestigious Palm d’Or award. Unfortunately, unless you are an actor, celebrity, director, journalist, or very well connected to the cinematography industry, rubbing elbows with the rich and famous at any of the Palais des Festivals film screenings is by invitation only (or by acquiring a coveted badge).

Do not despair mes aimes, there are still ways to experience the Cannes Film Festival despite our lack of notoriety. Walking the Red Carpet at The Palais des Festival may not be so easy, but we can certainly partake in the other offerings of the festival including:

Cannes Classic: A collection of old Cannes Classic films, restored and screened nightly at The Cinema de la Plage on the Plage Mace across from the Majestic.

International Critic’s Week: A collection of Avant Guard Films by emerging Directors. You can obtain free tickets, although limited, at the ticket booth on the side-street next to Miramar Hotel (35 rue Pasteur ).

Director’s Fortnight : A assortment of Short Films and International Documentaries in a variety of Genres. Tickets from Palais Stephanie cost a mere 7-8€.

Keep in mind that if you come to Azurlingua to study French, you too can experience every aspect of the Cannes Film Festival! After all, gracing the red carpet was made possible this year by Azurlingua and L’Eclat.

Take this opportunity to visit the Azurlingua Spain and Mexico blogs.