At this year’s Cannes Film Festival, Kering’s annual “Women in Motion” dinner has evolved from an intimate gathering into one of the most sought-after events on the calendar. With a staggering 40-person waiting list, the soirée has become a powerful platform spotlighting women’s contributions to film and culture. Actress and activist Salma Hayek, one of the evening’s prominent attendees, described the growing buzz as “a very good problem” — a sign that the movement to empower women in cinema is gaining serious momentum.
Kering chairman and CEO François-Henri Pinault expressed pride in the event’s increasing impact. While acknowledging that progress is gradual, he emphasized the group’s commitment to advancing gender equality in the industry. “People are asking to come, people are asking to contribute to the cause,” he noted. “Things are moving, not fast enough as you know, but they are moving, and we are part of that.”
The ninth anniversary of the Women in Motion dinner was held at a striking castle overlooking Cannes, drawing crowds eager to catch a glimpse of the night’s arrivals. This year’s honoree broke new ground — Universal Studios chair Donna Langley became the first executive to receive the award, which has traditionally celebrated acting talent. Salma Hayek praised Langley as a visionary leader and an inspiring example of female power in Hollywood’s upper echelons.
Langley’s recognition signals a broader shift in the industry. Hayek explained that the lack of female executives historically meant the award focused on actresses, but Langley’s enduring role as one of the few women leading a major studio is a beacon for future generations. “Hopefully in the future there will be many more, and the difficulty will be choosing from a great variety of amazing women,” Hayek said.
The evening also highlighted Kering’s growing involvement in film production. Zoe Saldana and Édgar Ramírez, riding high on the success of their musical “Emilia Perez,” spoke about Saint Laurent Productions — a Kering-backed initiative that supports filmmakers and artistic projects. Ramírez praised the brand’s commitment to cinema, describing it as a “win-win” for creators and the fashion house alike.
Ramírez shared a humorous anecdote about the difficulty of scoring premiere tickets, underscoring the exclusive nature of Cannes. His wardrobe, curated under the watchful eye of Saint Laurent’s creative director Anthony Vaccarello, was praised for its seamless blend of style and cinematic authenticity — not feeling commercial but genuinely artistic.
Diane Kruger, whose own film “The Shrouds” is in competition and produced by Saint Laurent Productions, called for fashion brands to deepen their support for emerging filmmakers, particularly women. Citing Prada’s short film series at the Venice Film Festival as a positive example, Kruger urged for investment at all career stages, not just when filmmakers are established. She commended the Women in Motion dinner for initiating meaningful change by supporting women both in front of and behind the camera.
The event also acknowledged the critical role of cinema in societal transformation. François-Henri Pinault highlighted French filmmaker Judith Godrèche, a #MeToo movement figure who bravely spoke out about abuse in the film industry. Kering’s foundation supports efforts to combat sexual violence against women, underscoring the group’s broader commitment to social progress.
Cannes Film Festival president Iris Knobloch praised Donna Langley’s trailblazing achievements, calling her “one of the most powerful people in Hollywood” and a true inspiration for breaking the “celluloid ceiling.” A heartfelt video tribute featuring Michelle Yeoh, Emily Blunt, Ariana Grande, Tom Cruise, Cynthia Erivo, and Diane von Furstenberg celebrated Langley’s dedication to film, showcasing how she personally invests in every project she oversees.
Langley humorously acknowledged the challenging balance her role requires — navigating financial realities while championing inclusion and diversity. She echoed Viola Davis’s hopeful sentiment from the previous year: “I hope my ceiling is somebody else’s floor.” Her message was clear: the work toward equality is ongoing and essential.
Fashion was also front and center, with notable appearances including newly appointed Boucheron ambassador Pierre Niney, who sported a bold diamond brooch and multiple rings, signaling a personal style evolution. Niney spoke candidly about the industry’s ongoing fight for equality, both in France and the U.S., emphasizing that much work remains to be done.
The dinner’s atmosphere was enriched by the presence of international stars such as South Korean actress Han So Hee and “Emily in Paris” star Philippine Leroy-Beaulieu, who enjoyed a live flautist and violinist performance. Saint Laurent’s Vaccarello, French icon Catherine Deneuve, Cannes jury president Greta Gerwig, and other luminaries mingled, reflecting the event’s unique blend of culture, activism, and artistry.
Kering’s Women in Motion dinner at Cannes is no longer just a celebration — it is a vital movement fueling change in cinema. By elevating female leadership, supporting emerging talent, and confronting industry challenges head-on, the event exemplifies how art and advocacy can unite to reshape the future of film.
