In The New York Times, critic A.O. Scott weighs in with a look at the first half of Cannes 2005. But first he reminds readers that Cannes, this year in particular, has the feel of an old boys' club, with the regulars in competition and on the jury:

The main competition at this festival might be compared to an exclusive club with a significant number of permanent members. (A gentleman's club, mainly, since shockingly few women - none this year - are invited to join.) Some filmmakers pass through an initiation period in satellite programs like Un Certain Regard and the Directors' Fortnight, while others vault right onto the main stage, but it is remarkable how many of them, once they are voted in, keep showing up year after year.