Cannes has long been maligned as a sunny place for shady people. Despite its apparent superficiality, there is a significant spiritual dimension to the Cannes film festival, and to Cannes itself. Cannes has been an important ecclesiastical centre for learning since the fifth century, when Lérins Abbey was established on nearby Saint-Honorat Island. As I discovered when I was making my new film, Quintessentially Irish, Saint Patrick was educated here prior to evangelising Ireland.
One of the key awards at the film festival is the prestigious Ecumenical Prize. Ever since its establishment in 1974, the Ecumenical jury is asked to pick the film from the festival’s official selection that best “touches the spiritual dimension of our existence”. At the 76th edition, it was spoilt for choice with films that featured a variety of spiritual storylines and intriguing characters.
