Why Personal Shopper (2017) Faced Criticism at Cannes: Behind the Boos
At the prestigious Cannes Film Festival, the atmosphere can be electric, with a unique blend of anticipation, contention, and celebration. However, amidst the myriad of critically acclaimed films, a few stand out for the wrong reasons, such as the 2017 film Personal Shopper. Known for its avant-garde approach and controversial storyline, Personal Shopper faced a rare display of audience displeasure during its premiere at Cannes.
Understanding the Cannes Context
Rather than a straightforward, well-organized festival, Cannes often invites spontaneous reactions and emotional responses. After viewing numerous films in rapid succession—ranging from masterpieces to disappointments—a weary mood can set in. This fatigue, combined with the temporary emotional highs and lows of the event, can lead to extreme reactions. Audiences may applaud an exceptional film, or respond with boos and vocal opposition to those they feel are lacking.
The Case of Personal Shopper (2017)
Personal Shopper, directed by Olivierass Tremblay and starring Kristen Stewart, introduced a complex and ethereal storyline involving medium Charlotte Collins. The film's supernatural plot and its unconventional approach to storytelling played a significant role in shaping the audience's response. Here's a deeper look into why the film faced criticism and how it aligns with the broader nuances of the Cannes experience.
Supernatural and Ambiguous Storytelling
The film's plot revolves around a young woman who goes to Paris to find her disappeared brother. As a medium, she begins to receive supernatural messages from his soul, leading to intense and surreal sequences. The film's ambiguity and its exploration of metaphysical realms struck many as innovative but also as a risky gamble. Some viewers found the story engaging and thought-provoking, while others felt it was too experimental and difficult to follow.
Controversial Reception at Cannes
On the opening night, the film was met with a display of vocal opposition. The booing and jeering were unexpected, as the Cannes audience is generally composed of a mix of influential film critics, buyers, and filmmakers. This strong reaction suggested that the plot, style, and execution of Personal Shopper did not align with the expectations and preferences of the audience.
Emotional State and Expectations
A key factor in the film's reception is the mental and emotional state of the audience. Cannes is a marathon of film screenings, and the days can be long and tiring. Viewers may be more critical or less patient, especially when experiencing disappointment. The film's pacing and its unconventional narrative style could have contributed to viewer frustration, leading to an emotional (and vocal) response.
Comparison with Positive Reactions
It's worth noting that not all films receive booing at Cannes. Generally, films that garner critical acclaim and audience admiration tend to receive standing ovations. The Shape of Water, for example, received a standing ovation at its premiere, showcasing the power of a film that resonates with the audience. In contrast, Personal Shopper's reception highlights the shifting nature of film preferences and the unpredictability of audience reactions.
Marketing and Audience Perception
The marketing for Personal Shopper played a crucial role in setting audience expectations. While the film's trailer and promotional materials suggested a unique and thrilling experience, the realization of the actual film did not fully meet these expectations for some viewers. This can lead to a mismatch between the film's vision and the audience's perception, resulting in a negative reception.
Conclusion
The boos at Cannes for Personal Shopper were not solely based on the film's quality, but also on the broader context of the festival. The Cannes experience is dynamic and unpredictable, with emotional highs and lows that can influence reactions. While Personal Shopper's unconventional storyline and its reception at Cannes will likely be discussed for years to come, it serves as a reminder that film festivals like Cannes are not just about the films, but also about the reactions they evoke.