Nadine Labaki continues to make history as she adds another feat to her list of accomplishments…
Nadine Labaki is a woman of many wonders. She’s the first Arab female to ever be nominated for an Oscar for her film, Capharnaum, and now, the Lebanese director is adding another accomplishment to her books (and ours, too).
Overnight, news emerged that Labaki has just been announced as President of the Un Certain Regard jury for the 72nd edition of the Cannes Film Festival. Making the Middle Eastern personality the first Arab to ever head the jury, we couldn’t be any prouder.
A position spearheaded by Cate Blanchett last year, Labaki will now sit amongst the panel of jurors to dissect, discuss and debate over 20 films that deserve recognition.
Speaking of the new appointment, the filmmaker said: “I remember back when I used to come to Cannes as a film student, I was so excited to experience the world’s most prestigious festival. Today, I am the President of the Un Certain Regard Jury, which just goes to show that sometimes life can be even better than your dreams.”
However, the news doesn’t come to us as a surprise. Labaki has garnered much recognition over the years following her other films, Caramel and Where Do We Go Now? – both of which, were unveiled during previous Cannes Film Festivals too.
The Un Certain Regard screenings will start on May 15 and the winners will be announced on May 24. Mark your calendars…
Also, find out which Lebanese designer just teamed up with this Italian fashion house on a capsule collection.
- Words by Meeran Mekkaoui
