Angela Spain’s Cannes Diary: Day Two

Angela Spain, general manager, PR & Activation at FCB NZ is New Zealand’s representative on the Cannes Lions PR jury. Spain, along with most of the Australian and NZ jurors, is reporting exclusively for CB.

I wake up this morning and the harsh reality of my situation sinks in. I do not have a pair of white jeans with me, which appear to be the pantalons du jour for promenading down La Croisette.  I take solace in the fact that not everyone can pull these off (some can- shout out to V. George at FCB: yeah-a) and decide to rise above this grave error.

Day 1 of judging began with a briefing from the CEO of Cannes explaining the exponential increase in entries in the PR category this year, which is great news for the PR industry. Other categories have seen some decline so it’s good to see the advertising industry recognising the important part PR plays in campaigns (often leading them). He also advised us that the jury room is like Las Vegas. Strippers and hookers I wonder? But no – he means what goes on tour stays on tour. He obviously didn’t get the memo that PR people are over sharers and it’s quite amusing to watch people fidget nervously as they contemplate resisting the urge to do what comes so naturally to them. Oh well, at least we have each other.

Judging kicks off and is relentless. A good showing from Australian and NZ agencies, and I find myself explaining some of the cultural nuances to a Brazilian, Spaniard, German and Israeli in my sub-jury. This is a good reminder to agencies from the antipodes to avoid local slang in your case film as it just does not translate. With the fierce competition on display you don’t want to lose your jury.

It also reminds me that I must choose a football team to support. So suggestions welcome. I kinda prefer an underdog. You know, sort of like the All Blacks…..

Au Revoir and feel free to follow me on Instagram if you need to over index on Maseratis @ang_spain