‘Cannes Park’ has officially proven that Korean cinema is no longer on the sidelines of the global stage! Director Park Chan-wook made a triumphant return as the Jury President for the competition section of the 79th Cannes Film Festival, capturing the world’s attention with his witty remarks and strong convictions during the opening press conference.
This year’s Cannes Film Festival features three Korean films: Director Na Hong-jin’s new work ‘Hope’ (Competition), Director Yeon Sang-ho’s ‘Colony’ (Midnight Screening), and Director Jung Ju-ri’s ‘Dora’ (Directors’ Fortnight).
According to Yonhap News, Park smiled and said, “I’m glad that great Korean films were invited,” but quickly drew a firm line, adding, “That doesn’t mean I’ll give extra points to Korean films,” which brought a wave of laughter to the venue.
Recalling his first visit to Cannes in 2004 for the film ‘Oldboy’, he shared his emotions, saying, “Only 20 years have passed, but there have been many changes. Korea is no longer a peripheral country in cinema.” He added a humble and deep insight, stating, “Rather than saying Korean cinema has entered the center, I believe the center of cinema itself has expanded to embrace a wider variety of films from more countries.”
While he earned the nickname ‘Cannes Park’ by bringing masterpieces like ‘Oldboy’, ‘Thirst’, ‘The Handmaiden’, and ‘Decision to Leave’ to the festival, the role of Jury President was not a light crown to wear.
Park honestly confessed, “Having served as a juror in the past, I know very well how stressful it is. That’s why I agonized over it for exactly five minutes.” However, he soon showed his affection and loyalty, adding, “Looking back, I’ve received so many gifts from the Cannes Film Festival, so I felt it was time for me to give back.”
He continued, “I will watch the films with an excited heart, waiting to be surprised without any prejudice or stereotypes.” However, he clarified, “During the judging meetings, I will evaluate them as an expert with clear views on cinema and a knowledge of its history.”
When asked if film and politics should be separated, he showed his firm conviction, saying, “It is strange to think of politics and art as opposing concepts. Just because a work contains political claims doesn’t mean it should be seen as an enemy of art. Art and politics are not opposing concepts. If it is argued well artistically, it is definitely worth listening to.”
Meanwhile, Jury President Park Chan-wook will carry out the heavy responsibility of judging 22 competition films until the closing ceremony on the 23rd, alongside a prestigious global jury including Hollywood actress Demi Moore, Swedish actor Stellan Skarsgård, Chinese-born director Chloé Zhao, and Belgian director Laura Vandewalle.
