Recently, an anonymous group of activists from various French industry unions, such as Collectif 50/50 and CGT Spectacle, launched a petition calling for the dismissal of Dominique Boutonnat, the President of France’s cinema board. In just a few hours, the petition has garnered over 500 signatures, indicating a growing unrest among French industry professionals. The petition is private, making it impossible to determine the identities of the signatories, but the total number of signatures currently stands at 523. Additionally, there are talks among members of the group regarding the possibility of staging a physical protest outside the CNC headquarters in Paris.
The petition specifically references two recent articles in the French newspaper Libération that shed light on the legal troubles Boutonnat is facing. He is set to go on trial in June for sexual assault allegations. The investigation into Boutonnat’s alleged misconduct began two years ago, culminating in his indictment in February 2021. Despite maintaining his innocence, the case proceeded to trial in September 2022. The petition emphasizes the importance of holding leaders accountable, stating that while Boutonnat is entitled to the presumption of innocence, his position at the CNC undermines the credibility of the institution.
The petition underscores the need for the CNC to uphold ethical standards, especially in light of ongoing discussions surrounding sexist and sexual violence in the entertainment industry. It stresses the importance of leading by example, particularly when society is closely monitoring the actions of influential figures. The signatories express their disappointment in Boutonnat’s continued role within the organization, citing concerns about the impact on the industry’s reputation and progress. They call for decisive action to restore faith in the CNC and its commitment to fostering a safe and equitable working environment for all professionals.
Boutonnat’s tenure as CNC President has been marred by controversy, with his reappointment in 2022 drawing criticism from industry stakeholders. The decision to extend his term came amid support from France’s Culture Minister, Rima Abdul Malak, sparking further debate about political influence within the organization. As the petition gains momentum, it coincides with the upcoming Cannes Film Festival, adding a layer of urgency to the calls for accountability. The festival itself is facing its own challenges, as the Precarious Film Festival Workers Collective prepares to strike over labor issues, highlighting broader concerns about fair treatment and compensation in the film industry.
The petition calling for the removal of Dominique Boutonnat as President of France’s cinema board reflects a larger push for transparency and accountability within the entertainment sector. The growing support for this movement underscores the industry’s commitment to addressing systemic issues and promoting a culture of respect and safety for all professionals. As the Cannes Film Festival approaches, the spotlight on leadership integrity and workers’ rights intensifies, setting the stage for crucial conversations about the future of French cinema and the values it upholds.