The second night of the Cannes Film Festival was marked by a powerful message from French actor-director Judith Godrèche, who presented her short film "Moi Aussi" that addresses sexual misconduct in the French film industry. Godrèche, who has become an ambassador for the #MeToo movement, shared her personal experience of being preyed upon and groomed as a minor by directors Benoît Jacquot and Jacques Doillon.

The screening, held on a beach next to the Palais, kicked off what many hope will be a significant reckoning for the film industry in France. However, the festival has also come under scrutiny for featuring actors who have faced #MeToo allegations, raising questions about accountability and whether anyone can truly be "canceled" in Cannes.

Among the controversial figures present at the festival are Shia LaBeouf and James Franco. LaBeouf has been sued by his ex-girlfriend FKA Twigs for allegations of sexual battery, assault, and emotional distress. The lawsuit, currently ongoing, is set to go to trial in the fall. Meanwhile, the Guardian published a story before the festival began, claiming that director Francis Ford Coppola engaged in inappropriate behavior on the set of his film "Megalopolis," including trying to kiss semi-nude female extras and pulling women to sit on his lap.

The inclusion of these individuals in Cannes raises concerns about the industry's commitment to addressing sexual misconduct. LaBeouf is not only screening a film in competition but also selling a star vehicle at the Cannes Market. Similarly, international rights to James Franco's upcoming action thriller "The Razor's Edge," in which he stars alongside Tommy Lee Jones, are being shopped. Moreover, Bill Murray, who faced allegations of inappropriate behavior during the production of his film "Being Mortal," has a project titled "Riff Raff" being considered in the market.

Cannes is not the first film festival to face criticism for including individuals with #MeToo allegations. The Venice Film Festival also faced backlash in 2019 for inviting Roman Polanski and Nate Parker. However, the organizers of Cannes have made a conscious decision to keep Godrèche at the forefront of the festival, showcasing her as a symbol of fighting for change. She walked the red carpet at the "Furiosa" premiere, alongside other women, in a unified act of solidarity.

As the Cannes Film Festival progresses, it raises important questions about the balance between exposing and addressing sexual misconduct within the industry while also providing a platform for individuals facing allegations. The presence of controversial figures like LaBeouf, Franco, and Coppola has ignited a debate, prompting reflection on the efficacy of cancel culture and the need for genuine change in the film industry.