Search Here

Life is about wonder, wisdom and passion, and becomes increasingly clear through personal exploration.I've never felt more alive than now, with wonder sprouting, wisdom budding and passion blooming every second I'm at the Cannes Film Festival.

In fact, these feelings discreetly budded at a Danish airport, sprouting life as I examined my fellow A12 Copenhagen to Nice passengers.

Before Saturday, I felt so cool and special. I casually bragged to anyone and everyone that "Yes, I am going to the Cannes Film Festival- you know just one of the world's most prestigious, publicized and exclusive events reserved for the elite. "

However, waiting six hours in the Scandinavian airport jerked me back to reality. I remember brazenly ogling at my Danish plane mates, mystical beings known for their unbeatable happiness, homogeneity, egalitarianism, tolerance, free healthcare and endless vacation days.

I've been to Denmark several times, but I've never seen the preppy sweaters around necks, Prada accessories, Vertu phones and airs of arrogance. Apparently, these things are not supposed to exist in Denmark, a utopian society where "keeping up with the Joneses" is a bad thing.

This sudden surge of inadequacy was surprisingly foreign because I spent weeks boasting to others about my rare opportunity. The news of my Cannes trip spread like wildfire, with me endlessly gloating and rewarding myself with personal back pats. I boldly walked toward A12 after flying from New York to Copenhagen, constantly patting myself on the back and telling myself I'm important enough to be a part of one of the world's most prestigious and publicized "invitation only" film festivals. I felt like a billion bucks, bursting with pride and joy and incapable of humility the moment the boss officially made me the "officiel" representative for French Riviera film reporting.

Alas, rude awakening was impatiently waiting for me at gate A12, with every step bringing me closer to a thunderstorm of shame and apprehension.

My first time in Cannes was right before my 22^nd birthday. I cherished it and still reminisce about lying on the beach with no work, responsibility or care in the world. However, this trip is different because I'm here as a professional journalist reporting her first international entertainment piece.

The commute from Nice to Cannes triggered immortal butterflies in my stomach. Despite being sleep-deprived for more than 36 hours, my eyes refused to shut as I surged in vigor, revelry, fascination and excitement. I was determined to talk to and network with as many people as I can to redefine and transform myself from dorky science reporter to glamorous entertainment correspondent. I had no idea that it was going to be more than difficult....