Carla Bruni’s Chopard show disrupted by a party

France’s former First Lady takes to social media in frustration

The Trophée Chopard ceremony at the 78th Cannes Film Festival brought together some of the biggest names in cinema to celebrate emerging talent and the enduring power of film. Oscar winner Angelina Jolie, serving as this year’s “godmother,” presented the prestigious award to rising stars Marie Colomb and Finn Bennett, praising their courage and commitment. “We are brought to other lands, into private moments, even on the battlefield, we connect and we empathize,” Jolie said, highlighting the vital role of international cinema in fostering understanding during turbulent times.

The event, held on the Croisette and hosted by Chopard’s Caroline Scheufele alongside festival leaders, was attended by luminaries including jury president Juliette Binoche, Halle Berry, Jeremy Strong, and Quentin Tarantino.

Deafening music

Carla Bruni, France’s former First Lady and singer, was there to sing a few songs. Just as she was set to take the stage and the winners were being announced, Carla Bruni’s Chopard show was interrupted by deafening music from a nearby beach restaurant, Vega la Plage. Bruni, visibly frustrated, took to social media to voice her disappointment: “We had prepared five or six songs. We were happy to play tonight. And we couldn’t. Because the neighbor has decided to have a party. Without any respect for the artists next door. Without any respect for the Chopard trophies,” she shared.

The Vega la Plage was subsequently closed for one night by the authorities in an “appropriate” response – one that cost the restaurant considerably in the middle of the festival.

Michael Leahy Photo: Par Raph_PH — CarlaBUnionCHap091217-2, CC BY 2.0