CANNES - A FESTIVAL VIRGIN'S GUIDE
Updates to the book
American Pavilion Goes Members Only
2-May-2005
For the first time in its 17 year history the American Pavilion has decided to impose a membership regime for the 2005 festival (and perhaps beyond). Membership for 2005 is available for a once-off fee of USD $25.00, which provides access to the pavilion for the duration of this year's festival (however, you'll also need festival accreditation to enter the International Village where the pavilion is located).
Cannes regulars will probably note that there isn't actually anything different on offer from the new, membership-based American Pavilion; presumably the decision to levy a fee on visitors is more to do with helping sure up the organisation's finances (which have reportedly been touch and go for many years) rather than to pay for anything new. It doesn't appear that members are able to bring "guests" into the pavilion, so it's probably worth choosing an alternative venue for meetings/get-togethers unless both parties have purchased their memberships.
You can get more information about the American Pavilion (and purchase your membership online) at the official web site.