I think the last time I went to Cannes was in 2016 (Unfortunately, I did end up at the Gutter Bar.) I was working for a “competing” awards show at the time. Ostensibly, we were there to conduct competitive research and make connections. In reality, we quaffed unreasonable amounts of coffee and rose, and had lots of hollow, if pleasant, exchanges. I’m sure deals get made there, but I have to wonder if the end justifies the means. Not long after that, Publicis announced its moratorium on awards shows, opting to invest in their tech instead. I’m sure it was at least partly a PR ploy, but I remember respecting them for it.
Anyway, I’ve been reading your stuff ever since I was a junior PR guy in the mid to late aughts during your Adweek days. Good to rediscover you here.
Great article written with your usual biting, insightful and acerbic wit full of insights.
“Cannes nowadays presents itself as a festival of creativity, but it’s really a carnival of capitalism.” Great line.
Good thoughts here.
I think the last time I went to Cannes was in 2016 (Unfortunately, I did end up at the Gutter Bar.) I was working for a “competing” awards show at the time. Ostensibly, we were there to conduct competitive research and make connections. In reality, we quaffed unreasonable amounts of coffee and rose, and had lots of hollow, if pleasant, exchanges. I’m sure deals get made there, but I have to wonder if the end justifies the means. Not long after that, Publicis announced its moratorium on awards shows, opting to invest in their tech instead. I’m sure it was at least partly a PR ploy, but I remember respecting them for it.
Anyway, I’ve been reading your stuff ever since I was a junior PR guy in the mid to late aughts during your Adweek days. Good to rediscover you here.
Have you read frenemies? all about MediaLink. seems pretty lame if you ask me. pay to play. the old way.