Cannes’ Off-Screen Drama: Canal+, Bolloré and a Reckoning for French Cinema
The Cannes Film Festival is currently embroiled in controversy surrounding Canal+ and its billionaire shareholder Vincent Bolloré. A petition signed by around 600 film industry professionals criticizes Bolloré's influence over French media and culture, particularly in light of Canal+'s recent acquisitions. Canal+ chairman Maxime Saada has stated he no longer wishes to work with those who signed the petition, further escalating tensions within the industry.
- ▪Approximately 600 film industry professionals signed a petition against Vincent Bolloré's influence over Canal+.
- ▪The petition raises concerns about a rightward shift in Canal+'s editorial line ahead of the 2027 presidential election.
- ▪Canal+ chairman Maxime Saada announced he no longer wants to collaborate with petition signatories, calling it an 'injustice'.
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Home Film Global May 18, 2026 10:52am PT Cannes’ Off-Screen Drama: Canal+, Bolloré and a Reckoning for French Cinema By Elsa Keslassy Plus Icon Elsa Keslassy International Correspondent @elsakeslassy Latest Cannes’ Off-Screen Drama: Canal+, Bolloré and a Reckoning for French Cinema 12 minutes ago Jia Zhangke Sets Next Feature ‘Mamma Dunhuang’ Starring Zhao Tao and Liao Fan, Reteaming With MK2 Films (EXCLUSIVE) 7 hours ago Lola Quivoron’s Thriller ‘El Dorado’ Boarded by Films du Losange as Production Wraps in Southern France 8 hours ago See All Getty At this year’s Cannes Film Festival, the biggest controversy isn’t tied to a polarizing film or a political speech at a press conference.
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