"Oh my gosh, I feel like I'm living in a dream," exclaimed Frances "Franki" Russell, the lovely half-Filipina, half-Kiwi Miss Universe New Zealand when we talked to her at the Carlton Cannes Hotel in an exclusive interview during the 77th Cannes Film Festival. The charming 29-year-old actress-model told us, "I have been to Cannes five or seven years ago, but this is my first time at the Cannes Film Festival. So, I am happy to be here for the 77th.
" Known for such films as "Ang Probinsyano (2015), "Laruan" (2022) and "Pabuya" (2022), Russell added of her Cannes experience so far, "I'm grateful to be here. I'm about to do my second red carpet. I feel like a princess.
It's not only about the film industry, but also like its own fashion week. Fashion is everywhere and it's inspiring. So, it's very nice.
" Russell, who was getting ready for her red carpet appearance at the premiere of the Cate Blanchett and Alicia Vikander movie "Rumours," was stunning in a billowy layered ballroom gown in pink with a black plunging neckline halter top custom-made for her by Filipino designer Harvey Cenit. She said of her scene-stealing gown, "I feel so excited because it's made by a Filipino designer, Harvey Cenit. He made it from scratch and so fast.
I can't commend him enough because we had to ship it from Dubai to Nice and here to Cannes. I'm so grateful just to be wearing it. It fits like a glove and I feel like I'm really making a statement.
" Asked what she was looking forward to in Cannes an.
