The History Press Cannes Uncut: The Golden Years

When 22-year-old Richard Blanshard arrived at the Cannes Film Festival in 1976, he had no idea that he would become an official photographer for the UK and US film industry for the next two decades. His first assignment was to photograph Fred Astaire and Gene Kelly as they promoted their movie That’s Entertainment, Part II. It was to be the first of many. Today the only images we see are from the red carpet. Smartphones and social media have made it difficult for the talent to relax, but during his time there Blanshard had unfettered access to the stars and industry greats as they worked, partied and relaxed throughout their time at Cannes. His photographs were designed to document candid, personal moments alongside glitz and glamour to create international publicity. Not only that, but they showcase the unique atmosphere of Cannes and the festival. Through his remarkable collection, spanning stars and celebrities from the Golden Age of Hollywood through to the rising talent of the era, Blanshard lifts the lid on what life was really like behind the scenes at the world’s most iconic film festival. In an age where publicists, actors and actresses are ever mindful and protective of their image and reputation, we’ll never see another collection quite like it.