L'Oréal Paris Champions The Role Of Women In Cinema With The Launch Of Its Inaugural Lights On Women Award, Recognizing A Promising Female Filmmaker

CANNES,France,June 22,2021 -- On the occasion of the 74thFestival de Cannes,L'Oréal Paris has announced the launch of theLights On Women Awardwhich will honour one rising female filmmaker in partnership with the Short Films competition of the Festival de Cannes. The winner will be hand-picked from a selection of the Festival de Cannes' Short Films competition and from international film schools' short film programs.The final choice will be determined and announced by Academy award-winner and L'Oréal Paris spokesperson Kate Winslet - the Award's firstJuror- during a special prize ceremony at theJeune Cinémadinner in Cannes on July 16.

L’Oréal Paris,Lights On Women Award,Kate Winslet,2021 Juror

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Launching A Dedicated Award for Women Short-Film Directors: EmpoweringTalented WomentoPositively Impactthe Future of the Film Industry

As an Official Partner of the Cannes Film Festivalfor more than 24 years,L'Oréal Paris has always been a feminist brand that champions women's empowerment,specifically in the world of film through itsprivilegedrelationship withiconic actresses who embody the values of the brand. Now,L'Oréal Paris is going even further with this commitment,with the launch of a dedicated award program for women in cinema. Short films,thanks to their flexible format and relatively low barriers to entry,have long been considered to reflect the future of the film industry;as such,this award will encouragepromisingdirectorsto pursue their creative ambitions and provide funding that will empower women in overcoming the obstacles that they encounter.

"This exciting partnership with L'Oréal Paris represents a natural extension of the brand's ongoing support for Cannes and the wider cinema community,"saysThierry Frémaux,Director of the Festival international du film de Cannes."TheLights On Women Awardwill offer a much-needed opportunity to honour adeserving creatorand aligns with the broader commitment of theShort Films competitionand international film schools' short film programsto recognize the female talent of tomorrow,"he adds.

A Striking and Urgent Need to Correct Gender Imbalance within the Film Industry

The under-representation of women in film is a major issue within the creative industry,with only 10.7% female film directors in Hollywood as of 2019*. Moreover,only 21.3% of short films are directed by women; and only 7 women have ever been nominated for Best Director at the Academy Awards*. In light of these figures,the need to reduce bias and achieve greater gender balance is both striking and urgent.

A Unique Recognition Designed to Drive Creativity and Empowerment

The winner of the inauguralLights On Women Awardwill receive financial support of up to 30,000€. This unique recognition will also offer the winner a platform for increased visibility and will also gain access to a "sisterhood" of cinematic talent.

"L'Oréal Paris is a feminine and feminist brand; we believe in empowering women to overcome barriers and to have a long-term positive social impact within their communities," saysDelphine Viguier-Hovasse,Global Brand President,L'Oréal Paris."The massive under-representation of women in film requires large-scale support and I am proud to use our brand platform and resources to stand up for women's visibility,with the help of the incredible female actors who represent our brand. I firmly believe in advocating fortalented womenand holding space for them to shine."

Actor Kate Winsletadds,"What an honour topreside as Juroroverthis remarkable recognition for women film-makers and to have an opportunity to celebrate such incredible talent. It is essential that we work together as a community to pursue gender parity within our industry and I am delighted to support the L'Oréal Paris family on this important initiative."