Hollywood actors Kevin Bacon and Colin Firth were barred from attending a Cannes party for having too big an entourage.

Aghast, Bacon reportedly told the doorman: "I'm going to count to 10. By the time I reach zero you'll let me in," reported Internet portal Femalefirst.

On receiving a firm no - for bringing along too many friends - Firth replied: "You'll be hearing about this in the press."

The pair were later spotted enjoying a quiet drink at the nearby hotel, where Firth was heard saying: "It's probably a good thing for some thick-necked bouncer to remind you that presenting at Cannes doesn't mean you are better than a useless idiot. He's probably right."