Greta Gerwig Named Jury President for 77th Cannes Film Festival

American filmmaker Greta Gerwig, renowned for her record-breaking film “Barbie“, has been appointed President of the Feature Film Competition Jury for the 77th Cannes Film Festival, scheduled from May 14 to May 25, 2024.

Embracing Cinematic Universality

Gerwig, a revered figure challenging the conventions of the film industry, eagerly anticipates her role, stating, “Cannes has always been the pinnacle of what the universal language of movies can be. Being in the place of vulnerability, in a dark theatre filled with strangers, watching a brand-new film is my favorite place to be. I am stunned and thrilled and humbled to be serving as the president of the Cannes Film Festival Jury.”

An Artistic Journey

From her roots in Sacramento, California, to her prominence in New York, Greta Gerwig has charted an unconventional path marked by consistency and a penchant for risk-taking. Her artistic expedition spans acting, screenwriting, and directing, exploring multifaceted themes such as family dynamics, adolescent struggles, societal hierarchies, and the pursuit of artistic passion through characters that resonate with depth and authenticity.

Shaping Cinematic Narratives

Gerwig’s repertoire is a testament to her versatility, encompassing co-writing and co-directing endeavours like “Hannah Takes the Stairs” and “Nights and Weekends,” followed by critically acclaimed works such as “Frances Ha” and “Mistress America.” Her directorial solo debut, “Lady Bird”, earned widespread acclaim, garnering five Academy Award nominations for its poignant portrayal of adolescent challenges.

A Visionary Filmmaker

Her adaptation of the literary classic “Little Women” showcased Gerwig’s ability to reimagine narratives, focusing on the emancipation of female protagonists in a male-dominated society. Her latest masterpiece, “Barbie”, a satirical commentary on societal norms and sexism, propelled Greta Gerwig to the zenith, establishing her as the most successful female film director in history.

Record-Breaking

At 40, Gerwig becomes the youngest person appointed as Jury President since 1966, a testament to her groundbreaking achievements and Cannes’ commitment to embracing cinematic innovation. Her selection signifies her cinematic prowess and her representation of an era advocating for intelligence and humanism.

For Iris Knobloch, Festival President, Greta Gerwig’s ascendancy as the Jury President for the 77th Cannes Film Festival “is an obvious choice, since Greta Gerwig so audaciously embodies the renewal of world cinema, for which Cannes is each year both the forerunner and the sounding board”.

The 77^th Festival de Cannes will take place from Tuesday, May 14, to Saturday, May 25, 2024.

The Official Selection will be unveiled in mid-April.