The Golden State is set to get its moment in the French Riviera sun at this year’s Cannes Film Festival. The American Pavilion, which serves as a central hub of the U.S. film industry every year at the prestigious event, will launch an inaugural “California Day” on May 15 near the start of this year’s festival. Spotlighting the state’s essential role in global moviemaking and entertainment innovation, The American Pavilion’s California Day will feature “inspiring keynote addresses, dynamic panels, and vibrant networking opportunities,” according to organizers.

“Our mission has always been to celebrate creativity and provide educational opportunities for the next generation of filmmakers by giving a platform to industry leaders and changemakers,” said Julie Sisk, founder and president of The American Pavilion. “This year, we feel it is important to honor California’s unrivaled legacy in global entertainment. After several challenging years for the industry,...