Cristian Mungiu appointed jury president of Shanghai Film Festival

Romanian filmmaker Cristian Mungiu was appointed jury president of Shanghai International Film Festival (SIFF), the organizers announced.

“I have tremendous respect for Asian films, so I am very honored to be invited to join the jury of Shanghai International Film Festival,” Mungiu said.

He added: “While full of expectation for the films to be shown, I do understand, what’s more valuable than the awards is that the film festival provides a non-ignorable, fantastic opportunity for exchange and exploration concerning films and life in general.”

SIFF was founded in 1993 and is one of China’s most prestigious film events. Previous jury presidents include Luc Besson, Barry Levinson, Tom Hooper, John Woo and Jean-Jacques Annaud.

Mungiu, 49, released his first film, Occident/West in 2002. His second feature, 4 months, 3 weeks and 2 days, received Palme d’Or at the Cannes Film Festival. Later it also won the European Film Academy awards for best film and best director.

SIFF was founded in 1993 and is one of China’s most prestigious film events. Previous jury presidents include Luc Besson, Barry Levinson, Tom Hooper, John Woo and Jean-Jacques Annaud.