Tony Leung Chiu-wai, chairing the Shanghai International Film Festival jury for the first time, aims to advocate passionately for films he supports during the Golden Goblet selection process. "Even though the awards process is a team effort, I will do my best to convince them," the Hong Kong actor stated at a press conference, emphasizing the importance of viewing films from multiple perspectives.
International Jury Lineup
The jury includes a diverse group of film professionals: Tunisian producer Dora Bouchoucha, Chinese director Guan Hu, Kyrgyz director Aktan Arym Kubat, Georgian filmmaker Déa Kulumbegashvili, Mexican filmmaker Fernanda Valadez, and Chinese actress Xin Zhilei.
Dora Bouchoucha, the only African jury member, highlighted the significance of talent over resources in filmmaking, citing the Egyptian film "Happy Birthday" as an example. Guan Hu, known for his Cannes-winning film "Black Dog," looks for films with strong sensory impact, underscoring cinema's role in cultural communication.
Jury Insights and Expectations
Kubat, returning to the festival after winning last year's Golden Goblet Award, humorously noted the shift from competitor to juror. "If I had not won, I would think the juries had bad taste," he quipped, pledging to be a fair judge this year.
Kulumbegashvili, new to the festival, expressed her eagerness to explore Shanghai, prioritizing experiencing daily life over traditional sightseeing. Valadez discussed the evolution of Latin American cinema, emphasizing the global appeal of authentic storytelling.
Responsibilities and Reflections
Xin Zhilei, who earned the Volpi Cup for Best Actress at the Venice Film Festival, shared the honor and stress of her first jury role. "Such responsibility feels slightly stressful, but it’s a great honor. I will do my best to fulfill the duty," she remarked.
The 28th Shanghai International Film Festival runs from June 12 to 22, with the Golden Goblet Awards being presented at the closing ceremony on June 20.
Source: https://variety.com/2026/film/festivals/tony-leung-shanghai-golden-goblet-jury-2026-1236779543/
