Director Greta Gerwig has been named the jury president for the 2024 Cannes Film Festival, following the overwhelming success of her film ‘Barbie’. The announcement comes as Gerwig’s film grossed $1.4 billion at the global box office this year and received nine Golden Globe nominations. While Gerwig has attended Cannes in the past, this will be her first time presenting a film at the prestigious festival.
Although there were talks to bring ‘Barbie’ to Cannes earlier this year, the timing did not align. However, the Warner Bros. movie, released on July 19, became an instant classic and the highest-grossing worldwide movie of the year. In addition to its Golden Globe nominations, ‘Barbie’ is expected to secure numerous Oscar nominations.
Expressing her excitement, Gerwig said, I love films – I love making them, I love going to them, I love talking about them. As a cinephile, Cannes has always been the pinnacle of what the universal language of movies can be. She added, Being in the place of vulnerability, in a dark theater 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. I cannot wait to see what journeys are in store for all of us.
With this appointment, Gerwig will make history as the first American female director to hold the position of jury president at the Cannes Film Festival. Furthermore, at 40 years old, she will be the youngest person to fulfill this role since Sophia Loren, who presided over Cannes’ jury in 1966 at the age of 31. Other notable female jury presidents include Jane Campion in 2014 and Olivia de Havilland, the first female jury president, in 1965.
Greta Gerwig initially gained recognition as an actor and later broke through as a solo director with her critically acclaimed film ‘Lady Bird’ in 2017. The movie earned her a nomination for Best Director, making her the fifth woman ever to receive this honor. Subsequently, her film ‘Little Women’ received critical acclaim and garnered five Oscar nominations, with a win for Best Costume Design. Now, with the incredible success of ‘Barbie’, Gerwig has become the most bankable female director in history.
Gerwig’s appointment as the jury president for the 2024 Cannes Film Festival is undoubtedly a testament to her immense talent and contributions to the film industry. As a passionate advocate for the art of cinema, she will bring a unique perspective to the prestigious festival and undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on the selection of future cinematic masterpieces.
In conclusion, Greta Gerwig’s recognition as the jury president for the 2024 Cannes Film Festival is a well-deserved honor that cements her status as one of the industry’s most influential and talented directors. Her passion for films and commitment to storytelling make her the ideal candidate to contribute to the world-renowned festival. As audiences eagerly await the unveiling of the Cannes Film Festival lineup, it is clear that film enthusiasts can expect an exceptional cinematic experience under Gerwig’s guidance.
