The flashbulbs are going off in Cannes again, but it's not the usual collection of celebrities. Nevermind that it's flabby finance ministers instead of toned movie stars, the interesting thing about this year's Group of 20 summit of the world's most powerful economies is that the traditional powers find themselves elbowed from the spotlight and, in some cases, begging for a little help.

This week's meeting -- which kicked off today under the shadow of the European debt crisis -- finds some major economies significantly hobbled, while others are emboldened by unexpected upswings. Argentina and Turkey are unexpected heavyweights as their economies surge, while traditional international players such as the United States and Japan are too concerned by domestic problems to decisively step in and stem the financial turmoil in Europe. China and Brazil may be experiencing some uncharacteristic economic difficulties, but they'll be playing more critical roles in the summit than ever before.

To be sure, the developed nations of Europe and America still account for half of global GDP, and wield considerable geopolitical might. But, as AFP's Hugues Honore points out, this year's G-20 could very well mark a turning point. "The giant emerging economies of Asia and Latin America could stake a historic claim to global economic power if they arrive at the G-20 summit in Cannes with offers of aid for hobbled Europe," he argues. Let's catch up with how 10 key members of the G-20 are faring in today's uncertain economic climate.

Above, U.S. President Barack Obama and French President Nicolas Sarkozy head to a bilateral meeting in Cannes on Thursday.

Philippe Wojazer/AFP/Getty Images

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