Candid Backstage Portraits of Celebrities at the 2016 Cannes Film Festival

Photographer Greg Williams provides an insider’s look into some of the world’s most exclusive events. Last year, he attended the 72nd Venice International Film Festival, capturing intimate shots of celebrities—off the red carpet—for a fascinating series called #artofbehindthescenes. He has since revived this project for the 2016 Cannes Film Festival and turned a similar candid, cinematic eye towards some of Hollywood’s biggest stars.

Williams’ dramatic black and white photographs showcase the glitz and glamour leading up to film premieres as well as high-profile parties sponsored by luxury brands like Chanel. A-listers such as Usher, Robert De Niro, and Julia Roberts are pictured at ease as they relax and chat with fellow stars. In addition to this social aspect, the photographer highlights quiet moments that occur behind the scenes—specifically the prep work involved in looking so fabulous. Between this and the planned events, Willams offers a taste of what it’s really like to be a part of the unique experience.

Above: Justin Timberlake adjusting his necktie in his suite just before heading out to the Cannes Film Festival's opening ceremony.

Eva Longoria getting ready at the Carlton hotel.

Anna Kendrick on her hotel balcony, getting ready for the Cannes Film Festival opening ceremony.

Naomi Watts and Susan Sarandon relaxing in Cannes.

Justin Timberlake in heading out to the opening ceremony.

Salma Hayek having make up touch-ups before speaking to Women in Motion 2016.

Russell Crowe doing push ups at the Hotel du Cap-Eden-Roc.

Anna Kendrick and Justin Timberlake sail into Cannes to promote Trolls.

Chloe Sevigny sips a cup of coffee before speaking at Women in Motion 2016.

George Clooney signs autographs before attending the Money Monster press conference.

Julia Roberts at the end of the press day for Money Monster.

Adam Driver in Paterson by Jim Jarmusch.

Kristen Stewart, Woody Allen, and Jesse Eisenberg arriving for a photo call for their film, Cafe Society.

Robert De Niro being photographed by Edgar Ramirez at the premiere of Hands of Stone.

Lily-Rose Depp about to leave her room for La Danseuse.

Kirsten Dunst at the Chanel party.

Blake Lively, Naomi Watts, and Susan Sarandon sitting down to dinner at the Chanel party.

Usher at the preimere of Hands of Stone.

Greg Williams: Website | Instagram | Facebook | Twitter
via [Fubiz]

Sara Barnes

Sara Barnes is a Staff Editor at My Modern Met, Manager of My Modern Met Store, and co-host of the My Modern Met Top Artist Podcast. As an illustrator and writer living in Seattle, she chronicles illustration, embroidery, and beyond through her blog Brown Paper Bag and Instagram @brwnpaperbag. She wrote a book about embroidery artist Sarah K. Benning titled 'Embroidered Life' that was published by Chronicle Books in 2019. Sara is a graduate of the Maryland Institute College of Art. She earned her BFA in Illustration in 2008 and MFA in Illustration Practice in 2013.
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