Cannes 2023: Glamour, Grit, and the Absence of Meghan Markle

The 2023 Cannes Film Festival has officially kicked off in the picturesque south of France, bringing with it a wave of glamour and excitement.

This year, the festival has been drawing comparisons to the Met Gala's show-stopping fashion, the BAFTA TV Awards' lesser-known stars, and the Oscars' prestigious air.

It's a heady mix that promises to deliver stunning red carpet moments throughout the week.

With a lineup that includes high-profile premieres like “Indiana Jones and the Dial of Destiny” and Wes Anderson's “Asteroid City,” Cannes is once again showcasing both blockbuster hits and thought-provoking independent films.

Last year's festival introduced us to potential Oscar contenders such as “Elvis,” “Top Gun: Maverick,” and the Palme d'Or winner “Triangle of Sadness.”

With such a rich tapestry of films, it's no wonder that awards season feels like it begins here.

Among the glittering stars gracing the red carpet, Cate Blanchett stood out at the premiere of “Zone of Interest,” donning a custom Louis Vuitton ensemble.

However, her presence was notably contrasted by the absence of Meghan Markle, who has long dreamed of making her mark at events like the Oscars and Cannes.

Despite her past aspirations, the Duchess of Sussex has yet to make a splash at these prestigious gatherings.

Before her marriage to Prince Harry, Meghan was an ambitious actress with dreams of Hollywood stardom.

She collaborated with major media companies like Netflix and Spotify after stepping away from royal duties, aiming to create projects worthy of Oscar consideration.

Unfortunately for her, these ventures have not garnered the recognition she hoped for, leaving her productions overlooked and underwhelming.

Reflecting on her early career, Meghan took on roles such as a briefcase model on “Deal or No Deal,” but her journey in the film industry has been tumultuous.

With her father, Tom, a lighting director, and her ex-husband, Trevor Engelson, a film producer, one might assume she had the connections to succeed.

Yet, despite these ties, her acting career never truly flourished.

Now, as she navigates life post-royalty, Meghan envisioned herself as a prominent figure at award shows, perhaps even hosting the Oscars.

Instead, she finds herself sidelined, watching from the shadows as others bask in the limelight.

The contrast between her aspirations and reality is stark, highlighting the challenges she faces in her new role.

Meanwhile, Cate Blanchett is making waves at Cannes, not just as an actress but also as a producer.

During a discussion with Variety's Elizabeth Wagmeister, she candidly expressed her desire to transition away from acting.

“I've been trying to stop acting my entire professional life,” she admitted, revealing her ongoing quest for creative fulfillment beyond the screen.

Blanchett's latest project, “The New Boy,” premiered at the festival, showcasing her talents both in front of and behind the camera.

In her conversation, she emphasized the importance of diversity in filmmaking, pointing out the glaring gender imbalance in her current project, where she is the only woman among 62 men.

Her observations about the industry's gender dynamics resonate deeply, as she pointed out, “It means that you're always laughing at the same jokes.” Despite her impressive sense of humor, she advocates for a broader range of voices and perspectives in storytelling.

As the festival continues, the juxtaposition of glamour and the underlying struggles within the industry remains apparent.

While stars like Cate Blanchett shine brightly, the absence of figures like Meghan Markle serves as a reminder of the complexities of fame, ambition, and the harsh realities of the entertainment world.

In this vibrant atmosphere of Cannes, the narrative unfolds, revealing not just the glitz and glamour of the red carpet but also the personal journeys and aspirations of those who walk it.

The festival is not just a showcase of films; it's a reflection of dreams, disappointments, and the relentless pursuit of artistic expression.