Faith Nyasuguta
Lupita Nyong’o, the Academy Award-winning Kenyan-Mexican actress, has made history as she takes the lead of the international jury at the 74th Berlinale Film Festival.
The festival opened on February 15 with the jury presentation, marking the second consecutive year a woman has headed the jury. The 2023 jury, presided over by Nyong’o, comprises actor-directors Brady Corbet and Jasmine Trinca, and directors Ann Hui, Petzold, and Albert Serra, along with Ukrainian writer Oksana Zabuzhko.
Nyong’o, expressing her excitement, sees this opportunity as a profound honor and a chance to learn from seasoned artists.
This marks Nyong’o’s first attendance at the Berlin Film Festival, and she feels privileged to be the president for this year’s event. She views it as an opportunity to experience a diverse selection of films from around the world, representing various global perspectives.
The actress is keen to learn about the world of cinema while celebrating it alongside esteemed colleagues. Nyong’o is part of a panel responsible for screening twenty films competing for the Silver and Golden Bears, with the winners set to be announced at the Award Ceremony on February 24.
Notably, Nyong’o’s role as the jury president signifies a groundbreaking moment, making her the first African to hold this position at the Berlinale. Her selection aligns with the festival directors’ praise for her cinematic versatility and her consistency in delivering recognizable and diverse characters throughout her career.
This year’s festival boasts three African entries among the 20 films vying for top honors, indicating the growing representation of African cinema on the global stage.
Lupita Nyong’o, who gained worldwide acclaim with her 2014 Oscar win for “12 Years a Slave,” has since diversified her career with impactful roles, from “Black Panther” to “Us” and “Queen of Katwe.” The Berlinale festival, with its 73-year history, remains a significant platform for international cinema.
Established in 1951, it has evolved into one of the world’s major film festivals, often recognized for its political engagement. Nyong’o’s presence as the jury president reflects the festival’s commitment to diversity and represents a historic moment for African cinema in the global film landscape.
While the festival showcases diverse films and artistic excellence, it also grapples with political questions. The recent controversy surrounding the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD) party’s invitations to the festival highlights the intersection of cinema and politics.
Last week, organizers uninvited AfD representatives to the opening gala, prompting discussions about political affiliations and public events. The Berlinale, with its longstanding history, continues to navigate the complex interplay between art, politics, and societal issues.
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