CATE TO HEAD THE JURY IN VENICE FILM FESTIVAL
Actor Cate Blanchett has also previously served as head of Cannes Film Festival jury in 2018
Two-time Oscar winner Cate Blanchett will serve as the jury head of this year’s Venice Film Festival. The 77th edition of the Venice Film Festival will be held from September 2 to 12.
In a statement, the festival organisers said that the decision was made on January 10 by the Board of Directors chaired by the Italian economist Paolo Baratta. The 50-year-old actor’s name for jury president was recommended by festival director Alberto Barbera.
For Blanchett, who previously served as head of Cannes Film Festival jury in 2018, leading the Venice jury she says is a “privilege” and “pleasure”.
“Every year I look expectantly to the selection at Venice and every year it is surprising and distinct. Venice is one of the most atmospheric film festivals in the world – a celebration of the provocative and inspirational medium that is cinema in all its forms,” Cate said.
Barbera hailed Blanchett as an “icon of contemporary cinema” and also said that every filmmaker wanted to work with her.
“Her commitment in the artistic and humanitarian fields and to the protection of the environment, as well as her defence of the emancipation of women in a film industry still coming to terms with male prejudice, have made her an inspiration for society as a whole,” Barbera said, adding ,“Her immense talent as an actress, combined with her passion for cinema, are the ideal qualities for a jury president.”
Blanchett is known for her performances in films such as The Aviator (2004), The Curious Case of Benjamin Button (2008), and Blue Jasmine (2013) among others.