Pablo Trapero is taking on a presidential role at one of the world’s most highly anticipated film festivals…
The 42-year-old Argentinean writer, producer and director has been named the head of the Un Certain Regard jury at this year’s Cannes Film Festival.
The Un Certain Regard runs parallel to the competition and includes 20 features, which will be unveiled on April 17.
“I am very proud to serve as president of the jury for Un Certain Regard. Proud to take part in another way in the adventure in Cannes,” said Trapero. “Un Certain Regard, where I have presented three of my films, is always a very exciting selection. It brings us grand masters, promising young talent, new countries and new forms of cinema.”
Trapero‘s last appearance at the festival was back in 2012, when he presented his film Elefante Blanco as part of the Un Certain Regard field.
A festival circuit darling, Trapero’s first feature, Mundo Grúa, received the Critics’ Award at the Venice Film Festival in 1999. His second, El Bonaerense, was selected at the 2002 Cannes festival in the UCR section and in 2008, his Leonera screened in Competition. Carancho was also in UCR in 2010.
Trapero’s oeuvre is known for its quasi-documentary style, offering an uncompromising look at contemporary political issues.
He also works with young Argentinean filmmakers via his production company, Matanza Cine.
Trapero follows Thomas Vinterberg who was president last year and gave its top prize to Rithy Panh’s The Missing Picture, which went on to land a Foreign Language Oscar nomination.
The Cannes Film Festival runs from May 14-25. This year’s winner will be announced on May 23.
