PARIS — British helmer Stephen Frears has been named president of the jury for the 60th annual Festival de Cannes, set for May 16-27, organizers said Thursday.
Frears, a Golden Globe and DGA nominee this year for his indie hit “The Queen,” made his Cannes debut in 1987 with his Palm d’Or nominee “Prick Up Your Ears.” His credits since then include “Dangerous Liaisons,” “Accidental Hero,” “The Grifters,” “The Van,” “The Snapper,” “High Fidelity” and “Dirty Pretty Things.”
“Of course, it’s an honor but it’s also a treat, to be able to watch terrific films from all over the world in such heady surroundings. God Save Cannes! (as well as the Queen),” Frears said in accepting the job.
“I am particularly delighted that Stephen Frears accepted my proposal this year,” Festival de Cannes President Gilles Jacob said. “We thus pay tribute to this great, inspired filmmaker, endowed with freedom of mind and love of making films. The 60th festival will henceforth take place under a lucky star, that of intelligence, wit and a dash of impertinence.”
Last year’s Cannes jury was headed by Chinese director Wong Kar-Wai.
