NYWIFT Blog

By Judith Davis

For May 2022, I had planned to go to Cannes. Once I was there, I decided I was going to make a point of meeting some of the Women in Film around the world. My trip was going to be quick since I was only going to be at the 2022 Cannes Film Festival from May 20 to the 24th.

NYWIFT Member Judith Davis at the Cannes sign

The goal was to see a few new films such as director George Miller’s film Three Thousand Years of Longing starring Idris Elba and Tilda Swinton, network, and be sure to attend the WIFTI (Women in Film & Television International) party. In fact, this event was actually a WIFTI partnership with The Hollywood Reporter, and co-presented by NYWIFT.

NYWIFT Member Judith Davis and Women in Film Finland Member, Manna Katajisto

The evening of May 22 came and a film producer colleague and I prepared to attend the WIFTI Cocktail Reception in Cannes at the Campari Lounge.

The Women in Film event at the Campari Lounge in Cannes

The night was complete with networking, a red carpet, and drinks, with NYWIFT and other WIF members meeting and exchanging ideas. Along with all the festival activities for the 10 days, this specific party was the ideal addition as a member of such an exclusive and important group for any woman in the film industry.

Slamdance Grants Manager & Producer Kyra Rogers, NYWIFT Member Susan Lazarus, and NYWIFT Member Judith Davis at the WIFTI event at the Campari Lounge in Cannes

This attendance at Festival de Cannes was only my second time going, but it will not be my last. Another cool thing about Cannes is that there were pavilions that represented various countries. I was fortunate enough to visit the Pavillion Afriques where there were panels, screenings, and networking available while at Cannes.

NYWIFT Member Judith Davis at Pavillion Afriques

For those of you who have not had the pleasure to attend the festival, I would say this: you absolutely must plan the trip at least once and if you are a NYWIFT member. Go and represent the organization well. It was my pleasure to do so. 

The Cannes Film Festival red carpet