The 78th Cannes Film Festival is set to showcase a star-studded jury led by the acclaimed French actress Juliette Binoche, who will preside over the selection of this year’s prestigious Palme d’Or. Joining her will be a diverse group of filmmakers and actors, including American actress and filmmaker Halle Berry, Indian director Payal Kapadia, Italian actress Alba Rohrwacher, French-Moroccan writer Leïla Slimani, Congolese director Dieudo Hamadi, South Korean filmmaker Hong Sangsoo, and Mexican director Carlos Reygadas, along with American actor Jeremy Strong.
This year’s jury is not only a reflection of cinematic excellence but also a celebration of global representation, with members hailing from various cultural backgrounds. The jury will evaluate 21 films competing for the Palme d’Or, the highest honor awarded at the festival. The winners will be announced during the Closing Ceremony on Saturday, May 24, 2025, broadcast live by France Télévisions and internationally by Brut.
Juliette Binoche, who has been a Cannes regular since her debut in 1985 with André Téchiné’s “Rendez-vous,” is no stranger to the festival’s accolades. She won the Best Actress award in 2010 for her role in Abbas Kiarostami’s “Certified Copy.” Over her illustrious career, Binoche has starred in around 70 films, showcasing her versatility across various artistic disciplines, including theater, dance, and music.
Halle Berry, the first African-American woman to win an Academy Award for Best Actress for her performance in “Monster’s Ball,” has a rich filmography that spans blockbusters and independent films. She made her directorial debut with “Bruised” in 2020 and continues to co-produce several of her projects, including the upcoming “Never Let Go.”
Indian filmmaker Payal Kapadia made waves at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival, winning the Grand Prix for her debut feature, “All We Imagine as Light.” This film marked a significant return for India to the Cannes Competition after a three-decade absence. Kapadia’s unique vision and storytelling have garnered her international recognition, and she is poised to make a lasting impact on the global film landscape.
Alba Rohrwacher, an acclaimed actress in Italy, has presented multiple films in competition at Cannes, including the Grand Prix winner “The Wonders.” Her collaborations with her sister, director Alice Rohrwacher, have further solidified her reputation as one of Italy’s most talented actresses.
Leïla Slimani, a celebrated writer known for her psychological thriller “Lullaby,” which won the Prix Goncourt in 2016, brings her literary expertise to the jury. Her work often addresses themes of identity and societal issues, making her a valuable addition to the panel.
Dieudo Hamadi, a Congolese director and documentarian, is recognized for his compelling storytelling that often critiques the socio-political landscape of the Democratic Republic of Congo. His film “Downstream to Kinshasa” was featured in the Official Selection at Cannes in 2020, showcasing his commitment to highlighting underrepresented voices.
Hong Sangsoo, a staple at Cannes, has presented numerous films in both the Competition and Un Certain Regard sections. His intimate and introspective storytelling has earned him critical acclaim and a dedicated following. With a career spanning over two decades, Hong continues to push the boundaries of narrative cinema.
Carlos Reygadas, a prominent figure in Mexican cinema, is known for his unique storytelling style and stunning cinematography. His films, including “Silent Light” and “Post Tenebras Lux,” have received prestigious awards at Cannes, establishing him as a leading voice in contemporary filmmaking.
Jeremy Strong, an Oscar and BAFTA-nominated actor, gained recognition for his role as Roy Cohn in “The Apprentice,” which premiered at Cannes in 2024. His performance in the series “Succession” has also earned him multiple awards, including an Emmy and a Golden Globe, solidifying his status as one of Hollywood’s most talented actors.
The 2025 Cannes Film Festival is scheduled to run from May 13 to May 24, 2025. This year’s festival will open with Amélie Bonnin’s directorial debut “Leave One Day,” marking a historic moment as the first debut film to open the festival in its 78-year history. Other notable films in competition include “Die, My Love,” directed by Lynne Ramsay, and “The Mastermind” by Kelly Reichardt, among others.
As anticipation builds for this year’s festival, the jury’s diverse composition promises to bring a fresh perspective to the selection process, reflecting the evolving landscape of global cinema. With a mix of seasoned veterans and emerging talents, the 2025 Cannes Film Festival is set to be a celebration of artistic excellence and cultural diversity.
As the festival approaches, audiences and industry professionals alike are eager to witness the unveiling of this year’s cinematic gems. With a lineup featuring films that challenge conventions and tell compelling stories, the 2025 Cannes Film Festival is poised to leave a lasting impact on the world of cinema.
Will the jury’s choices reflect the innovative spirit of contemporary filmmaking? Only time will tell as the festival unfolds, showcasing the best of what global cinema has to offer.
