The Guerrilla of Indonesian Film Fighters and Syahrini's Presence on the Red Carpet of the Cannes Film Festival 2025

Kapanlagi.com - The Cannes Film Festival was first designed in 1939 as a reaction to political domination in the Venice Film Festival, which at that time was heavily influenced by the Nazi regime and Italian fascism. The main trigger was when the Nazi propaganda film OLYMPIA and the Italian film LUCIANO SERRA, PILOT received the highest awards, defeating American films that were actually superior in quality.

Feeling that the festival had become a propaganda tool, countries such as France, America, and England boycotted it. A French diplomat named Philippe Erlanger then proposed the establishment of a new festival that would be completely free from political interference.

This idea was supported by the French Minister of Education at the time, Jean Zay. The city of Cannes was finally chosen due to its tourist appeal and infrastructure readiness. After being officially held on September 20, 1946, Cannes immediately attracted the attention of the film world.

1. Prestigious Film Festival

With the participation of 18 to 19 countries and international judges, this event has become a credible international film stage. In the 1950s, the festival gained more attention with the presence of icons such as Grace Kelly, Kirk Douglas, Sophia Loren, and Pablo Picasso. It can be said that the Cannes Film Festival is as prestigious as the Academy Awards.

Together with the Venice Film Festival and the Berlin International Film Festival, Cannes is part of the 'Big Three', which refers to the three most prestigious film festivals in the world. All three set high standards for international filmmaking. It is no wonder that many filmmakers aim for their films to win awards at this event.

The Cannes Film Festival always captures the world's attention every May. For this reason, many filmmakers take advantage of this moment to spread positive messages, such as raising awareness for Gaza, and messages about the power of film that embraces diversity.

2. Syahrini on the Red Carpet

One of the interesting highlights of the Cannes Film Festival is the red carpet. Celebrities strutting down the red carpet receive a lot of attention, from their careers to their appearances. Recently, Syahrini also graced the red carpet at the Cannes Film Festival.

Her presence at this prestigious film festival became a hot topic on social media, as there were no new film projects or music works that she was promoting. She dazzled in a luxurious silver gown adorned with lace accents and sparkling diamond jewelry.

Apparently, Syahrini received a prestigious award from UNESCO. This award was given through the Listen To Her Parole platform, an international initiative aimed at amplifying the voices and stories of women from around the world.

3. Involvement of Indonesian Filmmakers

It can be said that Syahrini is not the only figure from Indonesia who has been involved in the festival. Christine Hakim was appointed as a jury member at the Cannes Film Festival in 2002.

There is also the film PRENJAK by director Wregas Bhanuteja from Yogyakarta, which was selected as the best short film at the Cannes Film Festival, Semaine de la Critique 2016. The achievement of PRENJAK marks the first time in the history of Indonesian cinema.

Almost every year, Indonesia never fails to send a delegation to the Cannes Film Festival. This year, there are several films that will be screened there, including JUMBO, PANGKU, IKATAN DARAH, MONSTER PABRIK RAMBUT, THE MORNING JOURNEY, and RENOIR.

4. Receiving Support from the Ministry

The Ministry of Culture of the Republic of Indonesia also provides appreciation and support for filmmakers who will carve the history of Indonesian cinema at the Cannes event, as they help build a bridge between the nation's culture and the global network.

Indonesia's participation in Cannes this year not only expands international networks but also opens up opportunities for strategic cooperation that has a real impact on strengthening the national film ecosystem.

(kpl/tdr)