Overview

• Rithy Panh, acclaimed for his cinematic exploration of Cambodian history and commitment to artistic freedom, has been appointed jury president for the Locarno Film Festival’s Concorso Internazionale.
• The 78th Locarno Film Festival is scheduled to take place from August 6 to 16, 2025, in Switzerland, where Panh will oversee the awarding of the prestigious Pardo d’Oro (Golden Leopard).
• Festival artistic director Giona A. Nazzaro highlighted Panh’s anti-dogmatic approach, prolific creativity, and influence on contemporary filmmaking as reasons for his selection.
• Panh expressed his intention to celebrate films that present diverse cultural perspectives and narrative experiences, emphasizing cinema’s role in preserving history and fostering understanding.
• His most recent film, 'Meeting With Pol Pot,' premiered at the Cannes Film Festival in 2024, further cementing his status as a leading global filmmaker.