Berlinale 2024: Lupita Nyong’o Becomes the First African President of the International Jury

Oscar-winning actress Lupita Nyong’o created history at the Berlin Film Festival as she became the first African personality to chair its international jury. This subsection highlights the groundbreaking achievement of Nyong’o and emphasizes the significance of her role in the festival.

The esteemed members of the international jury, including directors Ann Hui, Petzold, and Albert Serra, Ukrainian writer Oksana Zabuzhko, as well as actors and directors Brady Corbet and Jasmine Trinca. It highlights the diverse backgrounds and expertise of the panel, underscoring the collaborative and knowledgeable nature of the jury.

Nyong’o’s Excitement and Honor

Nyong’o, known for her outstanding performances on screen and her involvement behind the camera, is venturing into new territory as the jury president in Berlin. During the press conference that marked the opening of the 74th Berlinale, she expressed her deep honor and joy in being a part of the festival for the first time.

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“This is my first time taking part in the Berlin International Film Festival. I am deeply honored to be its president this year,” Nyong’o shared. She also described the opportunity to discover films from all over the world and engage with prolific artists as a chance to learn more about the world of cinema and celebrate it.

The international jury, comprising Nyong’o and other distinguished members, will evaluate 20 films competing for the prestigious Golden and Silver Bears, which will be awarded on February 24. The film screenings commenced with the Belgian-Irish drama “Small Things Like These” by Tim Mielants.

Nyong’o’s appointment as the international jury president not only makes her the first African personality but also the first black person to hold this position at the Berlinale. Historically, the majority of jury presidents have been from Germany, the United Kingdom, the United States, and France since 1956.

According to Festival directors Mariëtte Rissenbeek and Carlo Chatrian, Lupita Nyong’o embodies the qualities that they admire in cinema, including versatility and constancy. They praised her ability to participate in diverse projects that cater to different audiences while remaining faithful to a distinct artistic vision that transcends the characters she portrays.