Cannes Film Festival makes do with lighter lineup

CANNES, France - Hard times for the economy. Hard times for the Cannes Film Festival, at least in terms of splashy Hollywood films for which the world's most prestigious cinema showcase is known.

And then there is the volcanic ash - and the irritated Italians.

Cannes opens on Wednesday with Russell Crowe, Cate Blanchett and Ridley Scott's Robin Hood, one of the few A-list premieres at this year's festival, whose lineup has an undercurrent of economic themes.