Warner Bros. is returning to Cannes for another celebration after a controversial party last year hosted by studio boss David Zaslav and Graydon Carter. This time around, Zaslav is stepping back, and the party will be hosted by Air Mail and the CEOs of Warner Bros Film Group, Michael De Luca and Pamela Abdy. The event will honor the upcoming film “Furiosa: A Mad Max Saga” and its director, George Miller, as it makes its world premiere at Cannes. Changes are being made to the party to shift the focus away from Zaslav, with hopes that he will still be able to attend given his busy schedule. Brands are eager to join the event, which will feature the film’s cast, including Anya Taylor-Joy and Chris Hemsworth.
Last year’s party was a lavish affair with stars like Leonardo DiCaprio and Scarlett Johansson in attendance, celebrating 100 years of Warner Bros. and the rebranding of HBO Max as just Max. However, the event received criticism due to the timing, coinciding with a Hollywood strike back home. Zaslav’s decision to go ahead with the party against his advisors’ advice was deemed sad and ridiculous in a New York Times profile “How David Zaslav Blew Up Hollywood.” Despite this, the event was considered Cannes’ hottest ticket, overshadowing other parties in town.
The upcoming party will feature decor inspired by “Furiosa” and its post-apocalyptic world, creating an interesting mix with Graydon Carter’s old Hollywood chic style. The event will take place at the luxurious Hôtel du Cap-Eden-Roc, where last year’s anniversary party featured classic film images projected on the infinity pool. While Warner Bros. Discovery has faced financial challenges recently, there have been bright spots with successful films like “Barbie” and “Dune 2,” with hopes for the success of “Furiosa.”
Comedian Patton Oswalt took a jab at Zaslav’s financial decisions during an awards show, poking fun at the studio’s struggles. Despite the financial difficulties, the studio remains hopeful for the success of upcoming projects like “Furiosa.” The party in Cannes this year will be a celebration of the return to the festival and the debut of the latest installment in the “Mad Max” series. While Zaslav’s presence at the event is currently unknown due to his busy schedule, the new hosts are excited about the opportunity to celebrate the film with industry partners and attendees. Brands are eager to collaborate for the event, which is set to be a unique and memorable celebration at Cannes.
