Cannes categories
The main prize at Cannes is the Palme d'or, or Golden Palm, for which about 20 films compete, but there are many other categories devoted to specific segments of the film industry.
Official selection
These categories highlight the diversity of global cinema production.
- The "competition officielle" is the main event, the reason why most movie stars and other celebrities come to Cannes. The Palme d'or is its highest award and ensures that a film will be seen by lots of people and earn lucrative distribution contracts for those who made it. A narrative film is almost always the winner, although the documentary "Fahrenheit 9/11" won in 2004.
- "Un Certain regard" was created in 1978 to accommodate sidebar films that did not fit other categories and has become one of the festival's main showcases. A prize of the same name has been created to help the winner increase distribution.
- Le "Hors compétition" or "out of competition" category is not exactly official but has existed almost since the beginning, in part for films that did not meet the official criteria. Projections of such films tend to be industry events and help draw big names to the festival.
- Les "Séances spéciales" et "Séances de minuit" (midnight sessions) present works of a more personal nature.
- "Cannes Classics" highlights older films that have been restored to draw attention to historic works or pays homage to foreign cinema.
The Director's Fortnight
The "Quinzaine des realisateurs" was created after the turbulent events of May 1968, when the festival was cancelled, and runs in tandem without affecting the official competition.
Its goal is to both discover young talents and acknowledge the work of recognized directors.
International Critics Week
"La Semaine de la Critique" was founded by French film critics in 1962 and is the oldest of the sidebar events. It is limited to the first or second work by a filmmaker, and comprises a dozen or so movies, either full length or shorter. Cash prizes are awarded for the best film in several categories.
Golden Camera
The "Caméra Or" prize was created in 1978 and is awarded to the best first film presented in one of three previous main categories.
Cannes shorts
A special jury awards a Golden Palm for the best short film.
Cinéfondation
Film school students compete for the best short- or medium-length film in this category created in 1998. It also has a special jury and gives a cash prize.