In a significant milestone for Indian cinema, filmmaker Payal Kapadia has been named the Jury President for the 65th edition of Cannes Critics’ Week (Semaine de la Critique). This appointment places the Grand Prix-winning director at the helm of the prestigious parallel section dedicated to discovering the next generation of global filmmaking talent.
The Jury and Selection
Kapadia will lead a diverse international panel tasked with evaluating the first and second feature films of emerging directors. Joining her on the jury are:
- Théodore Pellerin: Quebecois actor.
- Oklou: French singer-songwriter.
- Ama Ampadu: Ghanaian-British producer.
- Donsaron Kovitvanitcha: Journalist and director of the Bangkok World Film Festival.
The selection committee reviewed a staggering 1,050 feature submissions and 2,400 short films. Ultimately, the section will showcase 11 feature films (seven in competition) and 13 short films.
A Proven Cannes Pedigree
Kapadia’s appointment follows a series of high-profile successes at the festival:
- 2024: Her feature All We Imagine As Light won the prestigious Grand Prix in the Official Competition.
- 2021: Her documentary A Night of Knowing Nothing won the L’Oeil d’Or for Best Documentary.
- Earlier Works: Her shorts Afternoon Clouds and And What is the Summer Saying also received acclaim at Cinéfondation and the Berlinale.
Advocacy for Independent Cinema
Reflecting on her new role, Kapadia emphasized the importance of protecting the “fragile” nature of first films against global market pressures.
“At a time where independent cinema is being eroded in every country, supporting the first works of filmmakers is almost a resistance to the market forces,” Kapadia stated. “The first films are often freer, more daring and fearless… to champion those is absolutely essential.”
Key Awards to be Decided
The jury will oversee several major honors, including:
- La Semaine de la Critique Ami Paris Grand Prize (Best Feature Film)
- Louis Roederer Foundation Rising Star Award
- Sony Discovery Prize (Best Short Film)
The 65th edition of Critics’ Week continues the tradition of the French Syndicate of Cinema Critics in nurturing art-house voices that often go on to define the future of the industry.