Park Chan-wook is set to make history as the first South Korean head of the jury at the Cannes Film Festival. This prestigious role follows French actor Juliette Binoche, who awarded the Palme d’Or to Jafar Panahi’s “It Was Just an Accident” last year.
Park is well-known for his unique and bold storytelling. He first caught Cannes’ attention in 2004 with his iconic film “Oldboy,” which not only won the Grand Prize but also gained a cult following. He has returned to showcase his work multiple times since then, with films like “Thirst,” “The Handmaiden,” and the recent “Decision to Leave,” which earned him the Best Director award in 2022.
In a joint statement, festival president Iris Knobloch and director Thierry Frémaux praised Park’s creativity and ability to portray complex characters, noting how his films resonate in today’s world. They expressed excitement to celebrate his talent and the rich cinema of South Korea.
Park’s appointment is a significant milestone. The only other Asian to lead the jury was Wong Kar-wai, two decades ago. This shows the growing recognition of Asian filmmakers in global cinema.
His latest work, “No Other Choice,” was nominated for three Golden Globes. Park shared his thoughts on cinema, saying, “The theater is dark so that we may see the light of cinema.” He expressed eagerness for the collaborative discussions that will take place during the festival.
Notably, Park highlighted the importance of gathering in a theater, especially in times of division and conflict. He sees shared film experiences as a powerful form of solidarity.
Cannes has long supported South Korean filmmakers. Im Kwon-taek won Best Director in 2002, and Bong Joon-ho made history in 2019 with “Parasite,” the first Korean film to win the Palme d’Or and even claimed four Oscars.
The festival has also provided a platform for a younger generation of South Korean directors, such as Hong Sang-soo, Kim Ki-duk, and Lee Chang-dong, showcasing their talent over the years.
As the film industry evolves, the spotlight on South Korean cinema continues to shine brightly at Cannes, marking a new era for filmmakers around the world.
For more on the Cannes Film Festival and its impact on global cinema, you can check out the official festival page here.
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Cannes Film Festival,Park Chan-wook
