Storm in French cinema: Canal+ at the center of controversy after statements by Maxime Saada

Bilal Din

18 May 2026

Updated: 18 May 2026

The world of French cinema is in turmoil, and Canal+ finds itself at the center of the storm. The crisis began with a statement on Sunday by its CEO, Maxime Saada.

He declared that he no longer wishes to collaborate with industry professionals who signed a critical article about Vincent Bolloré. The article was published in Libération.

Signed by more than 600 figures from the film industry, including Juliette Binoche, Adèle Haenel, and Raymond Depardon, the article points out the growing influence of billionaire Vincent Bolloré (Canal+’s main shareholder) on the financing, creation, and distribution of films in France.

During the Cannes Film Festival, Maxime Saada expressed his bitterness, describing this petition as an “injustice” towards his team. Furthermore, he went on to impose a clear veto: from now on, the group no longer wants to work with the signatories.

This stance caused a stir in the industry, with many seeing it as an attempt at intimidation or a “blacklist” to punish politically engaged artists.

Even the president of the CNC (National Cinema Center), Gaëtan Bruel, expressed regret over this reaction, calling it a regrettable “feeling of disgust.”

Canal+ plays a significant financial role in French cinema. The group holds considerable weight in film budgets.

Therefore, this boycott has a direct and concrete economic impact on the professionals involved. Illustrating the tense atmosphere, the channel’s logo was even booed during screenings on the Croisette.

This controversy reignites the sensitive debate about the media concentration around Vincent Bolloré, often accused by creators of wanting to control editorial lines.

On its side, Canal+ stands firm, defending its independence and emphasizing its historical role as a key supporter of French cinema.