Championing Emerging Filmmakers: Payal Kapadia Leads Cannes Critics’ Week Jury
Indian filmmaker Payal Kapadia has been appointed as the president of the jury for the 65th edition of Cannes Critics’ Week. Joining her on the jury are Quebecois actor Théodore Pellerin, singer-songwriter Oklou, Ghanean-British producer Ama Ampadu, and journalist and director of the Bangkok World Film Festival Donsaron Kovitvanitcha. Kapadia gained international recognition with her second feature film, All We Imagine As Light, which premiered at Cannes’ Official Selection in 2024 and won the Grand Prix. Born in Mumbai in 1986, Kapadia studied directing at the Film & Television Institute of India. Her short films Afternoon Clouds and And What is the Summer Saying were showcased at the Cinéfondation and the Berlinale. Her first feature documentary, A Night of Knowing Nothing, was selected at the Directors’ Fortnight in 2021 and received the L’Oeil d’Or for Best Documentary.
Kapadia emphasized the importance of film festivals in supporting emerging filmmakers, citing her own experience of building a global network through festival selections. She highlighted the significance of independent cinema and film criticism in nurturing new voices and promoting artistic freedom. Kapadia and her jury will be responsible for selecting the winners of the La Semaine de la Critique Ami Paris Grand Prize for best feature film, the Louis Roederer Foundation Rising Star Award for best actor or actress, and the Sony Discovery Prize for best short film.
In conclusion, Payal Kapadia's role as the president of the Cannes Critics’ Week jury underscores her commitment to championing emerging filmmakers and promoting diverse voices in the world of cinema. Her experience and expertise will guide the jury in recognizing and celebrating the creativity and innovation of new talents in the industry.