Cannes Film Festival Jury Includes Notable Figures as It Aims for Gender Balance

In a move reflecting the ongoing revolution towards inclusivity and recognition in the film industry, this year’s Cannes Film Festival will see a jury predominantly composed of women. The panel will be led by esteemed French actress Juliette Binoche, alongside accomplished American actress and filmmaker Halle Berry, Indian director Payal Kapadia, Italian actress Alba Rohrwacher, and French-Moroccan author Leïla Slimani. Rounding out the jury will be Congolese director Dieudo Hamadi, South Korean filmmaker Hong Sang-soo, Mexican director Carlos Reygadas, and American actor Jeremy Strong. This diverse group will convene to review a selection of 21 films vying for the coveted Palme d’Or, an award that encapsulates cinematic excellence and innovation. The winners will be announced on May 24 during the festival's closing ceremony, which will be broadcasted live by France Télévisions and Brut internationally. In conjunction with this year’s jury announcement, the festival will also honor Oscar and Emmy-winning actress Nicole Kidman with the Women In Motion Award. This accolade celebrates female artists who demonstrate unwavering commitment to promoting women's roles in both cinema and society. Kidman’s return to the festival, her first since receiving a special prize for the 70th Anniversary in 2017, further emphasizes the festival's dedication to spotlighting female talent. The 78th edition of Cannes not only promises to highlight diverse voices through its jury panelings but also through the film selection itself, which includes seven films from women directors—matching last year’s record as the highest in the festival's history. Prominent filmmakers like Wes Anderson, Jafar Panahi, and the Dardenne brothers are expected to draw significant interest from spectators and critics alike. The festival has previously been criticized for its lack of gender parity among its jurors and film selections. Therefore, this year’s lineup marks a critical step in addressing those concerns and sets a hopeful precedent for future editions. The acknowledgment of women directors and creators at such a prestigious festival reflects a broader change in the landscape of global cinema, moving towards greater representation and recognition of underrepresented voices.