Cannes Film Festival President Iris Knobloch Awarded Commander of the Order of Arts and Letters by the French Culture Minister

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Iris Knobloch, who has been re-appointed for another term at the Cannes Film Festival, received the Commander of the Order of Arts and Letters medal from France’s culture minister, Rachida Dati, during a special event held on Sunday.

Attending the solemn event hosted at the Palais des Festivals was an unforgettable experience for me as a film enthusiast. I was honored to be in the presence of Knobloch’s husband, brother, niece, and Cannes general delegate Thierry Fremaux, along with influential figures from the entertainment industry such as Francois-Henri Pinault, CEO of Kering, Tarak Ben Ammar, Arnaud de Puyfontaine of Vivendi, Victor Hadida from Metropolitan FilmExport, and many more.

In 2022, I stepped into the role of the first female president of Cannes film festival, a position I’d previously held as head of Warner Bros. in Europe. As a cinephile, this was an incredible milestone for me and a testament to the growing influence of women in the world of cinema.

As a movie reviewer reflecting on the shared experiences of Knobloch and Dati, I found it intriguing how they both originated from different lands yet soared with French ambitions. We’ve both carved our paths in a male-dominated industry, feeling like outsiders in tight-knit circles. There was an unspoken pressure to prove ourselves repeatedly, maybe more than the average person, and we both harbor a strong belief in culture’s transformative potential. This conviction stems from our parents, who instilled in us a deep sense of cultural emancipation. Born in Munich, a city that values discipline above all else and cherishes tradition, I can relate to their sentiments.

Knobloch likewise discussed the festival’s establishment in 1939, on the brink of World War II’s commencement. “The initial Cannes event didn’t occur until post-war, in 1946. That year is equally significant for me, as my father was freed from Auschwitz a few months prior, having endured tremendous hardship.

Knobloch stated, “Speaking here today as the leader of this festival feels like completing a full loop. It’s about paying tribute to its past and proving that life, imagination, and liberty will always triumph. It serves as a reminder that culture, in challenging circumstances, has consistently been our safest sanctuary and our strongest tool for resistance. My family has personally witnessed this reality.

Meanwhile, Dati acknowledged Knobloch’s commitment to “amplify the influence of women in areas where they are under-represented.” Dati expressed, “Being the sole woman in a meeting has never intimidated you or hindered your progress. However, what truly impresses me is your tenacity in fighting tough battles, yet doing so with grace, compassion, tranquility, and peace.

Additionally, Dati acknowledged Knobloch’s strong connection with Cannes prior to her presidency. Back in 2011, while she was at Warner Bros., she showcased “The Artist” in competition. This film, directed by Michael Hazanavicius and set in the glamorous era of Hollywood, had been rejected by every other studio. Dati remarked, “The script for ‘The Artist’ was accepted only by you. This decision embodies your dedication to your profession, the boldness of the festival, and your insightful leadership.

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2025-05-18 22:16