This summer, acclaimed director Jane Campion will be receiving a prestigious honorary award at the 77th edition of the Locarno Film Festival in Switzerland. The festival organizers have chosen Campion as the recipient of the Pardo d’Onore Manor Award for her exceptional contributions to cinema. The award ceremony will take place at the festival’s iconic Piazza Grande open-air venue on August 16, where Campion will be recognized for her outstanding achievement in the film industry.
Throughout her career, Jane Campion has made a significant impact on the world of cinema. Her directorial debut in 1989 with “Sweetie” established her as a unique and influential voice in filmmaking. Over the past three decades, Campion has continued to create thought-provoking and innovative films that have captivated audiences around the world. Her ability to portray complex and compelling characters, as well as her skill in tackling the darker aspects of the human experience, sets her apart as one of the most talented filmmakers of our time.
As part of the honorary celebrations at the Locarno Film Festival, two of Campion’s most renowned films, “An Angel at My Table” (1990) and “The Piano” (1993), will be screened. Notably, “The Piano” will be presented in a new 4K restoration, marking its debut on the Piazza Grande. Additionally, Campion will participate in an onstage Q&A session at the Forum @ Spazio Cinema on August 17, providing insights into her creative process and artistic vision.
Giona A. Nazzaro, Locarno’s Artistic Director, expressed his admiration for Jane Campion’s work, highlighting her unwavering commitment to artistic integrity and innovation. Campion’s willingness to push boundaries and explore the complexities of the human experience through her films has earned her a place among the most respected filmmakers in the industry. By honoring Campion with the Pardo d’Onore, the festival organizers aim to celebrate the limitless possibilities of cinema and inspire future generations of filmmakers to fearlessly pursue their artistic visions.
Jane Campion joins a prestigious list of past recipients of the Leopard of Honor, including renowned filmmakers such as Manoel de Oliveira, Bernardo Bertolucci, and Agnès Varda. Campion’s dedication to storytelling and her commitment to exploring the depth of human emotions through film have solidified her place as a trailblazer in contemporary cinema. The Locarno Film Festival’s decision to honor Campion is a testament to her enduring impact on the art of filmmaking and her unwavering dedication to artistic excellence.