Canneseries Opens With ‘House of Cards’ Showrunner and ‘The Agency’ Stars, But Work Commitments Force Jury President Norman Reedus to Cancel

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Under sunny weather, Canneseries began its journey on Thursday with great flair through an out-of-competition French debut of Paramount+’s “The Agency,” which is a remake of the popular French suspense series “The Bureau.

In its eighth installment, the festival was somewhat overshadowed when, at the last moment, jury president Norman Reedus from “The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon” had to withdraw due to work obligations. His position was taken by jury member Jeff Russo, a multiple Emmy-winning composer known for his work on “Fargo,” as well as “Ripley” and “Star Trek: Section 31.” The main competition’s co-jurors, actors Louise Bourgoin, Lola Dueñas, and César Domboy, graced the pink carpet on Thursday night.

A group of spectators, hoping to snap a selfie with Michael Fassbender, Richard Gere, or Norman Reedus from “The Agency,” might have felt let down, especially a young woman named Thea in her twenties, who had traveled from Nice to catch a glimpse of the “Walking Dead” star and intended to return with her sister for the premiere of “The Walking Dead: Dead City” Season 2 on Friday.

Or more informally:

A bunch of fans, expecting to get a selfie with Michael Fassbender, Richard Gere, or Norman Reedus from “The Agency,” might have been bummed out, just like a young woman named Thea in her twenties who traveled all the way from Nice to see the “Walking Dead” star and was planning to return with her sister for the second season premiere of “The Walking Dead: Dead City” on Friday.

As a movie enthusiast, I’m thrilled to share that today, I’ll be strolling the Palais steps alongside Jeffrey Dean Morgan, famously known as Negan Smith from the AMC spinoff of our beloved zombie series. Creator Scott Gimple will be by his side, adding to the excitement!

Last Thursday, stars graced the pink carpet, posing for photographers, including Ellie Fy and Mia Fall, who were resplendent in elegant evening gowns. Yet, it was the creators, screenwriters, and showrunners who truly shone. Beau Willimon (“House of Cards”) and Soo Hugh (“Pachinko”) were among them, along with David Hadda, who won an impressive three awards at last year’s Canneseries for his captivating family drama “The Zweiflers.” Happily returning to Cannes, David expressed his delight at being back.

Feels like returning home, minus the pressure, purely for pleasure,” the experienced author remarked, present at town to join the 40-member strong Writers Club. “I’m eager to discover the thought processes of writers from different nations and their methods in tackling contemporary issues.

At the opening event, Canneseries president Fleur Pellerin emphasized the importance of creatives working together to maintain artistic quality, diversity, education, and democratic principles in our ever-changing era.

During these uncertain periods, culture serves as our reliable compass; it aids us in making sense of the disorder and redefining purpose. As international conflicts flare up and democratic principles are tested, culture emerges as a potent symbol of liberty and innovation,” she emphasized to the crowd of 2,000 gathered at the Palais’ Grand Auditorium, reinforcing the organization’s fundamental values of unity, interaction, and artistic aspiration. “Our festival is designed to build connections,” she underscored.

Highlighting the upcoming industry event at Canneseries from April 25-27, Pellerin emphasized that the program embodies the goals of Industry Days, including fostering collaboration, exchanging innovative ideas, and generating fresh projects. Moreover, the former French Culture Minister discussed the challenges posed by artificial intelligence in the creative process for humans.

In line with Pellerin’s perspectives on artificial intelligence, Mayor David Lisnard of Cannes emphasized the vast potential it offers. “We find ourselves in the infancy of AI,” he pointed out.

The politician revealed plans for the World AI Film Festival, which had a successful debut this year in Nice with over 10,000 attendees, to be held at Canneseries next year. He stated that he and Charles Ange Ginésy (President of the Alpes-Maritimes Department and the House of AI) share the same vision and have decided to host the WAIFF during Canneseries in the upcoming year. This announcement, he said, is exclusive news.

During the opening on Monday evening, the up-and-coming French actress Marie Colomb (“Laëtitia,” As Bestas) received the Madame Figaro-Rising Star Award. Meanwhile, another rising star, Nicola Coughlan (“Bridgeton”), is set to receive the Konbini Commitment Award.

Following the viewing of 19 series from the competition, 7 special screenings outside the competition, and 16 scheduled meetings, the eighth Canneries will conclude on Tuesday with an awards ceremony.

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2025-04-25 11:17