Maggie Gyllenhaal is set to lead the main competition jury for the 83rd Venice International Film Festival, which will take place later this year. The announcement was made by festival organizers on Thursday.
Actor and Filmmaker Takes the Helm
Gyllenhaal, an accomplished actor and filmmaker, most recently directed "The Bride!". Her directorial debut, "The Lost Daughter", premiered at the Venice Film Festival in 2021. That film, an adaptation of Elena Ferrante's novel starring Jessie Buckley, Olivia Colman, and Dakota Johnson, won the festival's screenplay award that year.
Festival director Alberto Barbera praised Gyllenhaal's selection, stating: "Maggie Gyllenhaal embodies an artistic path of uncommon consistency, constructed over time with intelligence and courage. Having her as the president of our jury means being able to rely on an authoritative and independent voice."
Jury Responsibilities and Previous Winners
The jury, which will be completed with other members from the international film community, is tasked with watching all competition titles and awarding prizes, including the prestigious Golden Lion. Last year, the top prize went to Jim Jarmusch's "Father Mother Sister Brother", chosen by the Alexander Payne-led jury over films such as Park Chan-wook's "No Other Choice", Yorgos Lanthimos's "Bugonia", and Guillermo del Toro's "Frankenstein".
Gyllenhaal's Vision for the Festival
In a statement, Gyllenhaal expressed her enthusiasm: "Venice has always supported truthful, singular voices and I am honored to play a part in continuing that brave and necessary tradition. I will not be standing in judgement, but in curiosity, admiration and excitement."
The 83rd edition of the Venice International Film Festival is scheduled to run from September 2 through September 12. Organizers typically announce the full lineup of films in late July.
