In 2024, Spanish filmmaker Rodrigo Sorogoen stepped down from his position for personal reasons, shortly before receiving an invitation to serve as the president of the 64th edition of the Cannes Critics Week.

Acclaimed Filmmaker

Rodrigo Sorogoen is renowned for his politically charged films and series. His latest project debuted at Cannes and has earned significant accolades, including nine Goya Awards and the Best Foreign Film Award from NAB France in 2023.

Curated Selection of Talent

This year’s Critics Week, overseen by curator Ava Cahen, aims to highlight first and second works by emerging filmmakers. Notable jurors alongside Sorogoen include:

• Daniel Kaluuya – Oscar-winning British actor
• Jihanebolin – Moroccan journalist and songwriter
• Jose Desshay – French-Canadian talk show host
• Illia Iurian Evara – Indonesian producer

Honor in Leadership

In expressing the honor of appointing Sorogoen as president, Cahen remarked, “To offer Rodrigo Sorogoen the presidency of the Jury of Semine de la Criticism is to show him all the love we have for his films. It is a great honor to present him with the first and second films in the 2025 selection. There are many feelings too.”

Cahen also praised Kaluuya, recalling her introduction to him through the “Black Mirror” series before he collaborated with acclaimed filmmakers like Jordan Peele and Shaka King. Her first meeting with him at Sundance solidified her desire to include Kaluuya in this year’s lineup.

Commitment to Emerging Filmmakers

Sorogoen lauded Critics Week for its dedication to nurturing young filmmakers. He emphasized, “The careful selection that specifically supports short films and first or second features offers a unique springboard to launch and enhance the careers of young directors. Without such platforms, we risk continuing to spotlight only established names, potentially sidelining new voices and innovative storytelling.”

Celebrating New Talents

This year’s Critics Week will present prestigious awards including the Ju’s French Touch Award, the Louis Lauder Foundation Rising Star Award for Best Actor or Actress, and the Leitz Cine Discovery Award for Best Short Film. Additionally, AMI, a noted French fashion brand, has recently joined as a sponsor for this event.

Event Schedule

The Cannes Critics Week is scheduled for May 14th to 22nd, featuring promising discoveries such as Charlotte Wells’ “Afterson,” which earned a nomination for Best Actor for Paul Mezcal at the 2023 Oscars.