Director Park Chan-wook has made history by being appointed as the jury president for the Cannes Film Festival, marking the first time a South Korean has taken on this prestigious role. The 79th edition of the festival is scheduled to take place from May 12 to May 23, 2023, in the renowned French resort city.
Festival president Iris Knobloch and director Thierry Fremaux praised Park’s creative contributions, stating, “Park’s inventiveness, visual mastery, and penchant for capturing the multiple impulses of women and men with strange destinies have given contemporary cinema some truly memorable moments.” They expressed their delight in celebrating his immense talent and the broader cinematic landscape of South Korea, a nation deeply engaged in addressing contemporary issues.
In response to his appointment, Park shared his enthusiasm, emphasizing the unifying power of cinema. He remarked, “In this age of mutual hatred and division, I believe that the simple act of gathering in a theater to watch a single film together, our breaths and heartbeats aligning, is itself a moving and universal expression of solidarity.”
Park Chan-wook is no stranger to Cannes, having first gained international attention in 2004 when his film Oldboy earned him the Grand Prix. He continued to showcase his talent with the Jury Prize for Thirst in 2009, and he received the Best Director award for Decision to Leave in 2022.
This year, he succeeds French actress Juliette Binoche in the role of jury president, a position that carries significant prestige within the film community. Park’s appointment not only highlights his individual achievements but also shines a light on the growing global influence of South Korean cinema.
The Cannes Film Festival remains one of the most celebrated events in the film industry, attracting filmmakers and audiences from around the world. As the festival approaches, the anticipation for Park’s leadership and the films that will be showcased continues to build, promising an exciting celebration of cinematic excellence.
