Amira leads jury in Dinard by Richard Mowe

The spotlight is set on Brittany for the upcoming Dinard British and Irish Film Festival, and presiding over the jury is someone whose cultural pedigree is simply impeccable: Amira Casar.

With a career spanning more than eight decades in film, Amira Casar brings an extraordinary depth of experience to the role, perfectly positioning her to guide this prestigious festival as it runs from October 7 to 11 at the beautiful seaside resort.

Casar’s credentials are far-reaching. Trained at the esteemed Conservatoire National Supérieur d’Art Dramatique in Paris, she has cultivated an aptitude for accents and dialects that lends a unique richness to her artistic presence. This mastery extends beyond the silver screen; Casar is also a celebrated musical performer known for lending her voice and artistry to some of the world’s most iconic compositions.

Her artistic versatility shines through her extensive engagement with classical music and major cinematic productions. She has starred in acclaimed musical adaptations, including the title role in Honegger’s Jeanne d’Arc Au Bûcher at the Barbican in London. Furthermore, she has graced performances of Medea in Cherubini’s work at the Salzburg Festival with the Vienna Philharmonic and featured prominently in Purcell’s The Indian Queen, directed by Peter Sellars.

Her contribution to music is not limited to performance; last year, she narrated Honegger’s Le Roi David with the Chœur de Radio France at the Maison de la Radio in Paris. This diverse background—blending classical training, film experience, and vocal artistry—makes Casar an ideal choice to assess cinematic talent.

As she prepares to head the jury, Amira Casar embodies a confluence of artistic excellence, ready to bring her unique perspective and rich history to the British and Irish film community.

By Liam Brooks