Elle Fanning appears on a video call from the Cannes Film Festival in France, undeniably poised yet warm and friendly. She exudes a certain sweetness that fits her famous smile, but as her name hints, her style is elegant. Fanning's blond hair is styled into a sleek, , and she is wearing light, summery makeup.
Only the hint of a sheer, silvery hue on her lids adds sparkle to the Fanning's naturally beautiful daytime glam. My initial impression of her is actually of her thoughtfulness, as I observe her connecting with her team before the interview commences. She also has a familiarity and ease with the process of being interviewed, a reminder of the fact that she has been working in the film industry for most of her life.
At 26, Fanning is a seasoned professional, making her a natural choice for the L'Oréal Paris' decision to name her the Juror for its fourth to highlight and empower women film directors. (She has been an ambassador for the brand for the last seven years.) As a juror, she will be presenting the award to the winning woman director selected among the official Cannes Short Films.
"I've worked with so many female directors starting from 11 years old, and I've been really lucky to have beautiful, lifelong-lasting friendships with them," Fanning tells PS. "To see them, from such a young age, in such a powerful position [on set] showed me that maybe one day, I could do that. Obviously there's still a long way to go with females in directing jobs, but also just jobs.
