Chapter 212: Cannes Premiere

The 2006 Cannes International Film Festival officially commenced in Cannes, France.

After having a date in Paris with Eva Green, Charles Capet headed to Cannes, while Eva Green went to Deauville to await Charles.

The main cast and crew of The Da Vinci Code arrived in Cannes yesterday, including director Ron Howard, original author and one of the screenwriters Dan Brown, Academy Award-winning actor Nicolas Cage, and emerging French actress Marion Cotillard.

Walking the red carpet at the Cannes Film Festival caused a media frenzy. The Da Vinci Code, as a non-competition film, focused on promotional activities during the festival.

At the grand media release event, Charles joined the main creators in being interviewed.

As a controversial film about religious secrets, The Da Vinci Code received considerable attention.

Reporter: "With protests from the Catholic League and ministry groups, does The Da Vinci Code really have an anti-Catholic message?"

Charles shook his head, "Director Howard has made it very clear. The Da Vinci Code is centered on suspense and thriller. The religious aspect is just the entry point of our movie!"

The buzz around the film was exceptionally high due to its controversial topic involving Catholic secrets and the descendants of Jesus.

Compared to Charles Capet, the media's focus was much stronger on the novel's author, the film's director, and the main actors.

Following this, The Da Vinci Code held its evening premiere at Cannes' largest theater in the Palais des Festivals, which seated 1,500 people and was quickly filled to capacity.

"Charles, is this the world premiere?" Marion Cotillard, wearing a sexy evening gown, asked excitedly.

Charles looked at Marion Cotillard, sitting beside him with a silly expression, surprised: "You're the female lead of the movie, isn't it weird you don't know if it's the premiere?"

Marion Cotillard touched her cheek, a bit embarrassed: "I'm just really excited. Tomorrow we have to fly back to the U.S. early for the North American premiere at night!"

"Have you finished your scenes for La Vie en Rose?" Charles inquired.

Marion Cotillard nodded, "My scenes are done, but there might be some retakes during the editing process. Don't worry, Charles, I'll help promote The Da Vinci Code properly!"

Since it wasn't their first time watching The Da Vinci Code, Charles and Marion Cotillard chatted in the theater.

"There were so many reporters during the red carpet and media release. It's my first time being part of such a high-profile movie!" Marion Cotillard had every reason to be excited.

"Today is the opening ceremony. The festival lasts ten days, and the closing ceremony is the most important. Many Hollywood stars only come for the last two or three days to walk the red carpet and attend the award ceremony," Charles explained quietly.

"Director Ron Howard of The Da Vinci Code is a former Best Director winner, and Nicolas Cage is an Academy Award-winning actor. They're big names!"

With The Da Vinci Code involving Christian secrets, its buzz had always been high. The media presence at the Cannes opening ceremony only amplified the attention it received.

"Charles, are you staying at the Hotel du Cap again?" Marion Cotillard leaned in and asked softly.

They first met during the Cannes Film Festival and spent a few wonderful nights at the Hotel du Cap.

"Yes, are you staying there too?"

"No, I'm staying at the Hotel Martinez because I'm one of Dior's fashion ambassadors," Marion Cotillard said, placing her hand on Charles' leg. "I'll stay with you tonight, since we're flying to the U.S. tomorrow!"

Charles laughed, "After the movie, there's a celebration party. Many media will be there. Afterward, let's go to my place. Journalists aren't allowed to take photos inside the Hotel du Cap."

In the evening, Capet Pictures hosted a premiere celebration party for The Da Vinci Code at the Marriott Hotel on La Croisette.

"Charles, look who's here!" Nicolas Cage, smiling, approached Charles with Sofia Coppola.

"Dear Sofia, I've missed you!" Charles warmly hugged Sofia Coppola and kissed her cheek.

Sofia Coppola planted a big kiss on Charles' cheek and joked, "You've missed me? Your mother says it's hard to see you. You are getting more handsome by the day!"

"Charles, another good news: Sofia is pregnant with her French boyfriend's child. Isn't that amazing?" Nicolas Cage said playfully. After all, his real name was Nicolas Coppola.

"Nicolas, take care of yourself. You're on your third marriage, and your wife had a son last year. Focus on your family instead of collecting things like cobra snakes, skulls, dinosaur fossils, or haunted houses," Sofia Coppola shot back, causing Nicolas Cage to feel a bit annoyed.

"Alright, Charles, keep Sofia company. Her new film Marie Antoinette made it into the Cannes main competition!" Nicolas Cage whistled as he walked away.

*****

https://www.patreon.com/Sayonara816.