Monday August 31st has been a day of reversals. Decisions made in the past came back to haunt two venerated cultural institutions.
The sudden announcement of a cancelled opening press conference at the Venice Film Festival “due to scheduling conflicts” had an about face. After mounting blow back, the Lido celebration announced the event will be held after all. The jury will face reporters at the beginning of the 83rd edition. Organizers can only hope to avoid the political drama from other that plagued other festivals this year. It is safe to write the world is not interested in Robert Pattison’s geopolitical opinions. Maybe this time the cinema crowd can enjoy the films without the adverse headlines. One can hope!
The Met Gala will need a new theme in 2027. Mounting criticism forced the New York uber fashion gathering to cancel the homage to John Galliano. The designer was convicted of antisemitism and hate in France following an outburst recorded on camera. Anna Wintour, the Vogue Content Chief and Gala chair women announced a month ago the British creative would be the theme for the First Monday in May Red Carpet affair. It was not meant to be. Forgiveness does not come easy. Faced with growing opposition from donors, politicians and groups, Galliano announced “that it is best for the exhibition not to take place at this time.” The controversial choice raised eyebrows, sparking rumors of the new Zara Creative designer being forgiven, a coming in from the cold. The Met Gala has not announced a new theme. Certainly, the change will be a safe one.
Decisions and intentions go in different directions.