Actress Dipshikkha Nagppal critiques the Cannes Film Festival for prioritising fashion over film, urging a return to its cinematic roots. She calls for a renewed focus on artistry amid the growing dominance of social media spectacle.
The 78th Cannes Film Festival, which commenced on May 13 along the picturesque French Riviera, continues to be a dazzling showcase of glamour, style, and celebrity. Traditionally revered as the world’s most prestigious film festival—a sacred space for auteur-driven cinema and profound storytelling—Cannes is now facing criticism for potentially drifting away from its core mission: celebrating cinematic excellence.
Among those voicing concern is actress Dipshikkha Nagppal, known for her roles in films such as Koyla, Baadshah, Dillagi, and Partner, as well as television shows like Son Pari, Santoshi Maa, and Megha Barsenge. In an exclusive interview with Downtown Mirror Weekly, the seasoned actress shares her thoughts on how the festival has increasingly prioritised fashion statements and social media visibility over meaningful cinema.
Dipshikkha Nagppal shares, “Cannes was once a sanctuary for film — a platform where global cinema was celebrated, analysed, and honoured. Today, sadly, the headlines are more focused on what someone wore than on what someone created.”
According to the veteran actress, what was once a revered venue for bold artistic expression and creative brilliance has evolved into a stage for curated glamour and viral moments. She points out the striking irony: “Films that earn critical acclaim or receive standing ovations are often eclipsed by the buzz around red carpet fashion and viral social media moments.”
Dipshikkha Nagppal observes, “A powerful film that wins a Jury Prize or moves audiences to tears barely gets noticed compared to a video of someone twirling in couture. It’s as if the cinematic accomplishments are secondary. That’s heartbreaking—we’re losing the narrative.”
Dipshikkha Nagppal continues, “The red carpet used to symbolise artistic recognition. Now, it’s often a launchpad for digital fame. That’s a dangerous shift—not just for filmmakers, but for cinema as a whole.”
Despite her candid critique, Dipshikkha Nagppal remains hopeful. She believes Cannes can rediscover its original spirit—but only if the industry, media, and audiences collectively recommit to valuing artistry over algorithms. “Fashion and cinema can coexist—but not at the expense of one another. Let the spotlight fall on those who’ve earned it through their craft. Let the red carpet lead us to the screening room, not just to Instagram,” she concludes.
