Cannes is facing extreme backlash, due to enforcing a surprising rule that states women not wearing high heeled shoes could not be allowed in. Both men and women have spoken out against this, perceiving the strange dress code as outdated and sexist. Film producer and amputee, Valeria Richter, was denied four times by officials for wearing flats before being let in to attend the viewing of the film, “The Sea of Trees”. The reason behind her choice of footwear was because she struggles to keep balance in heels, as part of her left foot was amputated. Richter spoke out, stating: “We put on the dress and make an effort to be formal and festive, but to demand heels is not right.”
Asif Kapadia, the director of the Amy Winehouse documentary “Amy”, received trouble from officials at the festival as well, as his wife was also initially turned away for wearing rhinestone flats, but luckily was later allowed in. Many older women in their 50’s were also being denied entrance, despite that some had discomfort and medical problems that stopped them from wearing heels. British actress, Emily Blunt, was outraged when she heard of the strict screening and said: “That’s very disappointing, just when you kind of think there are these new waves of equality.”
Especially considering the festival had been trying to make efforts to promote gender equality, many critics on and off the red carpet are finding this a disappointing move coming from Cannes.
