Indian Filmmaker Payal Kapadia Named Jury President For Cannes Critics’ Week 2026

On April 22, 2026, Cannes Critics’ Week announced Payal Kapadia as Jury President for its 65th edition. Known for her sensitive storytelling and bold cinematic voice, Kapadia’s appointment reflects the growing global recognition of Indian independent cinema.

Jury Composition

Kapadia will be joined by:

Théodore Pellerin – Canadian actor

Oklou – French singer-songwriter

Ama Ampadu – Ghanaian-British producer

Donsaron Kovitvanitcha – Thai journalist and festival director

Together, they will select winners for the Ami Paris Grand Prize (best feature), Louis Roederer Foundation Rising Star Award (best actor/actress), and Sony Discovery Prize (best short film). 

Kapadia’s Cannes Journey

2021: A Night of Knowing Nothing won the L’Oeil d’Or for Best Documentary.

2024: All We Imagine as Light premiered in Cannes’ Official Competition and won the Grand Prix.

2025: Served as a jury member at the 78th Cannes Film Festival. 

Significance Of Critics’ Week

Critics’ Week, organized by the French Syndicate of Cinema Critics, focuses exclusively on first and second feature films. This year, 11 features and 13 short films were selected from thousands of submissions, spotlighting daring new voices in global cinema. 

Kapadia’s Vision

Kapadia emphasized the importance of nurturing debut films: “First films are often freer, more daring and fearless, having an individual voice. Supporting them is essential to resist market forces and sustain independent cinema.” 

Key Highlights

•⁠  ⁠Payal Kapadia appointed Jury President of 65th Cannes Critics’ Week

•⁠  ⁠Leads jury with Pellerin, Oklou, Ampadu, and Kovitvanitcha

•⁠  ⁠Awards include Ami Paris Grand Prize, Rising Star Award, Sony Discovery Prize

•⁠  ⁠Critics’ Week to showcase 11 features and 13 short films

•⁠  ⁠Kapadia previously won Cannes Grand Prix in 2024

Sources: Outlook India, Moneycontrol, News18, Variety, Deadline