The Feature Films Jury presided over by the Italian Director, Nanni Moretti, explained what it intends to do in a press conference held a few hours before the Opening Ceremony:
Nanni Moretti :
“We’re going to meet up every other day to discuss the four films that we’ve seen. We’re going to watch twenty-two films in total and our views will undoubtedly differ. I’ll play the role of a school prefect! The key thing is to watch all of the films with the same level of interest and respect.”
Diane Kruger :
“It’s a great honour to form part of this Jury. However, I can’t help but feel a bit intimidated because I admire everyone else who is on it with me. My career began at Cannes and so I feel special affection towards the Festival. Our role will be to evaluate this year’s Selection.
Ewan McGregor :
“The Festival de Cannes is an amazing platform for film professionals where their films are thrust into the limelight quicker than anywhere else in the world. It’s also a very special place where new talent is uncovered. I’m fine with my role as a member of the Jury. I don’t feel like I’ve got the power to get my own back on anyone or anything like that!”
Alexander Payne :
“I think that award ceremonies are useful and that you have to see them as something fun. For a director, being in the Official Selection represents a major achievement.”
Andrea Arnold :
“I’m going to go and see films while keeping my mind as open as possible. It’s going to be like going into a house with of its windows and doors wide open. I wouldn’t like one of my films to be selected to appear at Cannes just because I’m a woman. If only a few female directors appear in the Official Selection, it’s because not many women make films. It’s a real shame.”
Jean-Paul Gaultier :
“I’m an everyday spectator. I hope to be surprised and moved. I’m in the job I’m in today thanks to the world of film. It was a Jean Becker film that made me want to work in the haute couture industry. My childhood was marked by French and German films by Fassbinder and Antonioni. The Rocky Horror Picture Show is one of my favourite bedtime films.”
Hiam Abbas :
“When you work in this industry, you know the ins-and-outs of making a film so well that it’s a rare event to let yourself go with the flow when you watch a film. That’s what I’m going to try to do here. I feel tiny surrounded by all these major stars of international cinema. It’s a really big responsibility.”
Raoul Peck :
“We want to be captivated and undergo a very personal experience. To do that, we’ll need to set aside our usual tastes in film. The films will have to stand out on their own merits.”