Among the many celebrities who have spoken out about red carpet glamour overshadowing storytelling at Cannes is actor Kunal Sharma. Recently seen in the film Maqam, Kunal emphasizes that it is our stories that will ultimately define our place in global cinema.
With his extensive experience, Actor Kunal Sharma, —currently seen portraying Vikram Ranwal in the recently released action-drama Maqam—shares his insights on the evolving landscape of the Cannes Film Festival.
As the prestigious Cannes Film Festival, which continues to draw global attention, comes to a close today, Kunal speaks out about a growing concern within the film community: The growing focus on red carpet appearances is overshadowing the true celebration of storytelling.
Kunal Sharma, who has also been a part of films such as The Legend of Michael Mishra, The Ghazi Attack, Saas Bahu Flamingo, Kanguva (a Tamil film), and Plan B (a Telugu film), reflects, “The Cannes Film Festival has always been a platform that celebrates authentic storytelling and cinematic excellence. But in recent years, the spotlight seems to be shifting. The red carpet, once reserved for filmmakers and actors with a film to present, now sees a wave of influencers and celebrities. While their presence adds glamour, it sometimes overshadows the very essence of what Cannes is about—cinema.”
Kunal Sharma believes that rather than chasing visibility on international platforms without a project in hand, Indian artists and creators should channel their energy into narratives that reflect the richness of the country’s culture and talent. He says, “The international stage is open and accessible, and it’s our stories that will define our place in global cinema. We must invest in storytelling that makes India proud.”
In an era where celebrity culture often eclipses content, his perspective is a refreshing reminder of the true power of cinema. “While the charm of fame is undeniable, true recognition comes from your work, from the art of storytelling—not just from being seen on some colorful carpet,” Kunal Sharma emphasizes. “Platforms like Cannes should be avenues to showcase our narratives, not just our presence,” he concludes.
- Cannes
- Cannes Film Festival
- Cannes Film Festival 2025
