Cannes 2012: Eva Longoria, Freida Pinto Walk the Red Carpet at the Film Festival's Opening Ceremony

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Slumdog Millionaire star Freida Pinto and Desperate Housewives alum Eva Longoria were the first fashion forces on the red carpet at the opening ceremony of the 2012 Cannes Film Festival and the premiere of Wes Anderson’s latest film, Moonrise Kingdom.

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Neither actress appears in Anderson's film, but both are L’Oreal Paris brand ambassadors and as such, it’s their daunting job to wear gorgeous designer gowns and L’Oreal cosmetics. And not just at the premieres. There will be fabulous parties every night they must attend. It’s a tough job, but it pays quite well and someone beautiful and famous has to do it.

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Longoria busted out the big gown for the opening day, a gorgeous blush embellished Marchesa gown with flared ruffle skirt, shoulder appliqué and a matching Marchesa crystal embroidered handbag. We have to give her credit for looking so glam so soon. She flew to Cannes last night (tweeting a cute photo of herself sitting on top of her trunks of clothing at LAX) and arrived early this morning at the Nice airport.

By contrast, Pinto’s gown, by designer Michael Angel, was far more manageable, with a strapless beaded bodice, a pale pink satin skirt with a peplum effect and a thigh-high slit.

This is just the beginning of the annual 2-week Cannes international fashion show that will feature designers' couture creations on the red carpets as well as at the various evening soirees. Oh, and there will be films too.