What was Rachida Dati doing at Cannes Film Festival?

She kissed Selena Gomez on the cheek, held Kevin Costner's hand: she is neither a director nor an actress, but Rachida Dati, the Minister of Culture who drew attention at the Cannes Festival. Last weekend, she walked her first red carpet as a government member, and her appearance left a lasting impression. While the politician is meeting Hollywood stars on the Croisette, many internet users are questioning the legitimacy of her presence on the red carpet. Some comments openly criticize her, complaining that government members do not belong at Cannes. Despite the negative criticism, attending Cannes is an initiation rite for all Ministers of Culture. For example, in 2022, the then-Minister of Culture, Rima Abdul Malak, also attended the cinematic event. Simply put, her appearance caused much less stir than Rachida Dati's.

The current Minister of Culture has engaged in interactions with major celebrities of the big screen, which has increased the visibility of her appearances. Rachida Dati walked the steps alongside Zoe Saldana and Selena Gomez for Jacques Audiard's film, Emilia Pérez. It was at this moment that the former Disney star and the minister exchanged the French-style cheek kiss. Videos capturing their interaction have garnered millions of views, with internet users astonished by this unexpected crossover. Later, the minister was seen hand in hand with American actor Kevin Costner for a special moment. The two posed together because the French politician presented the Bodyguard actor with the Order of Arts and Letters medal. Ms. Dati even reportedly told the actor "I will always love you,” in reference to the movie's soundtrack. This bold proclamation further increased the visibility of the minister's attendance.

Rachida Dati's work in Cannes goes beyond glitter and meetings with Hollywood stars. The minister has professional obligations, of course. On the CNC beach, she gave a speech on the defense of French cinema which was highly applauded. Additionally, the minister signed a bilateral agreement concerning Franco-Moroccan production. Later, she was at the Palais des Festivals to inaugurate the plaque of the Philippe Erlanger auditorium, accompanied by Thierry Frémaux, the festival's general delegate, Iris Knobloch, the festival's president, and David Lisnard, the mayor of Cannes.