Lupita Nyong’o Makes History as First African to Lead Berlin Film Festival Jury

Lupita Nyong’o, the Oscar-winning actress, has made history as the first African personality to preside over the international jury at the Berlin Film Festival.

The panel, officially introduced on February 15, includes directors Ann Hui, Petzold, and Albert Serra, Ukrainian writer Oksana Zabuzhko, and actors/directors Brady Corbet and Jasmine Trinca.

Nyong’o, known for her roles in various genres, expressed her deep honor at being the president this year, emphasizing the opportunity to learn more about the world of cinema and celebrate it.

The international jury will judge 20 films competing for the Golden and Silver Bears, to be awarded on February 24.

Nyong’o’s role as president embodies a diverse and consistent approach to filmmaking. Since her 2014 Oscar win, she has excelled in various genres, from horror in “Us” to the Marvel film “Black Panther,” the biographical “Queen of Katwe,” and the children’s book adaptation “Sulwe.”

The Berlin Film Festival, established in 1951, has been recognized by the International Federation of Film Producers Associations (FIAPF) since 1956.

Alongside Cannes and Venice, the Berlinale is considered one of the major film festivals, known for its political nature.