The 2026 Cannes Film Festival jury has been announced, and it's a star-studded lineup that promises to bring a diverse range of perspectives to the prestigious event. With South Korean filmmaker Park Chan-wook as the jury president, the festival is set to be a showcase of cinematic talent and creativity. Here's a breakdown of the jury members and their significance.
Demi Moore: A Career Resurgence
One of the most notable names on the jury is Demi Moore, who is coming off a career resurgence with her role in Coralie Fargeat's The Substance. This film, which won best screenplay at Cannes in 2024, has earned Moore a string of major awards, including her first-ever Oscar nomination. Moore's presence on the jury is a testament to her talent and the impact of her work, adding a layer of Hollywood star power to the selection.
Ruth Negga: Oscar-Nominated Talent
Another familiar face at Cannes is Ruth Negga, who earned an Oscar nomination for her performance in Loving, which premiered in competition in 2016. Negga's return to the festival is a reminder of her exceptional acting skills and the recognition she has received for her craft. Her presence on the jury brings a sense of continuity and a connection to the festival's past.
Isaach De Bankolé: A Cannes Regular
French star Isaach De Bankolé is a Cannes regular, having collaborated with renowned directors like Claire Denis and Jim Jarmusch. His presence on the jury is a nod to his versatility and the respect he has earned in the film industry. De Bankolé's involvement adds a layer of artistic credibility to the jury, showcasing his ability to work across different genres and styles.
Stellan Skarsgård: A Cannes Veteran
Stellan Skarsgård, a Swedish veteran, returns to the Croisette following last year's triumph in Joachim Trier’s Sentimental Value, which won the Grand Prix in 2025 and earned him an Oscar nomination. Skarsgård's Cannes credentials stretch back to 1996's Jury Prize winner Breaking the Waves. His presence on the jury is a celebration of his enduring talent and the impact of his work on the festival.
Chloé Zhao: A Rising Director
Chloé Zhao, a fellow filmmaker and director of Nomadland and Hamnet, joins the jury. Her 2015 feature debut, Songs My Brothers Taught Me, screened in Cannes’ Directors’ Fortnight section. Zhao's inclusion on the jury is a recognition of her unique voice and the impact of her work on the film industry. Her perspective as a fellow filmmaker adds a layer of depth and insight to the jury's decision-making.
Up-and-Coming Directors: Diego Céspedes and Laura Wandel
The jury also includes two up-and-coming directors: Diego Céspedes, whose debut The Mysterious Gaze of the Flamingo won last year’s Un Certain Regard Prize, and Laura Wandel, an Un Certain Regard winner for Playground in 2021. Their inclusion on the jury is a celebration of emerging talent and the festival's commitment to discovering and nurturing new voices.
Paul Laverty: A Screenwriting Legend
Scottish screenwriter Paul Laverty, a long-time collaborator with Ken Loach, rounds out the jury. Laverty has won best screenplay in Cannes for Sweet Sixteen (2002) and penned Loach’s two Palme d’Or winners: The Wind That Shakes the Barley and I, Daniel Blake. His presence on the jury brings a wealth of knowledge and experience in the art of storytelling.
A Diverse and Talented Jury
The 2026 Cannes Film Festival jury is a diverse and talented group, bringing a range of perspectives and experiences to the event. With Park Chan-wook as the jury president, the festival is set to be a celebration of cinematic excellence and a platform for diverse voices. The jury's decisions will shape the festival's legacy and influence the film industry for years to come.
