Indian filmmaker Payal Kapadia has been appointed to the esteemed jury of the 78th Cannes Film Festival, set to take place from May 13 to 24, 2025. This marks her second consecutive year at Cannes, following her historic Grand Prix win for All We Imagine As Light in 2024. Kapadia’s inclusion underscores the growing recognition of Indian cinema on the global stage.
A Trailblazing Presence
Kapadia’s journey at Cannes began in 2017 when she presented her short film Afternoon Clouds at the Cinéfondation. She returned in 2021 with her documentary A Night of Knowing Nothing, which won the L’Œil d’Or for Best Documentary. Her feature debut, All We Imagine As Light, became the first Indian film in three decades to be part of the Cannes Competition lineup, a significant achievement for Indian cinema.
The 2025 Jury Lineup
The jury for the 78th Cannes Film Festival is led by French actress Juliette Binoche and includes
Halle Berry – American Actress and Filmmaker
An Academy Award-winning actress, Halle Berry has long been a trailblazer in Hollywood. Known for her powerful performances in films like Monster’s Ball and Gothika, Berry has also made her mark as a director with her debut feature Bruised. Her presence on the Cannes jury adds star power and seasoned cinematic insight.
Jeremy Strong – American Actor
Emmy-winning actor Jeremy Strong gained international acclaim for his intense portrayal of Kendall Roy in HBO’s Succession. Known for his deep commitment to roles, Strong brings a thoughtful and immersive approach to storytelling, making him a valuable voice on the jury.
Alba Rohrwacher – Italian Actress
A standout in European cinema, Alba Rohrwacher is known for her nuanced roles in films like The Wonders and Happy as Lazzaro. Her collaborations with Italy’s top auteurs have earned her critical praise and festival awards, making her a respected figure in the global film scene.
Leïla Slimani – French-Moroccan Writer
Winner of the prestigious Prix Goncourt, Leïla Slimani is a celebrated novelist and journalist whose works explore themes of identity, gender, and societal norms. Her literary depth brings a unique perspective to the visual storytelling of the Cannes jury.
Dieudo Hamadi – Congolese Director and Producer
One of Africa’s most acclaimed documentary filmmakers, Dieudo Hamadi, is known for telling raw, human stories set in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Films like Downstream to Kinshasa have earned him international recognition for their courage and honesty.
Carlos Reygadas – Mexican Filmmaker, Screenwriter, and Producer
A Cannes veteran, Carlos Reygadas is a bold and unconventional voice in world cinema. Known for visually stunning and deeply philosophical films like Silent Light and Post Tenebras Lux, he brings an auteur’s sensibility to the 2025 jury.
Also Read: Indian Filmmaking Finds Its Moment at Cannes 2025
Hong Sangsoo – South Korean Director and Screenwriter
With a minimalist style and a sharp eye for human relationships, Hong Sangsoo has become a fixture at major festivals, including Cannes and Berlin. His prolific output and meditative storytelling have made him a critical darling and an influential figure in contemporary cinema.
This diverse panel will decide the recipient of the prestigious Palme d’Or among the 21 films in competition.
Celebrating Indian Cinema
Kapadia’s role on the jury highlights India’s increasing influence in global cinema. Her participation not only honors her achievements but also brings attention to the rich tapestry of Indian storytelling. As the festival approaches, the world eagerly anticipates the contributions of this distinguished jury in celebrating cinematic excellence.
