Naomi Kawase named DFF 2026 Jury Head
A significant voice from Japanese cinema is taking the helm of international film appreciation, as director Naomi Kawase is set to lead the jury for the main international competition at the upcoming second edition of the Doha Film Festival in November.
This prestigious role highlights Kawase’s esteemed position within the global film community, marking her selection to evaluate the year’s most compelling cinematic works.
She will not be navigating this critical task alone. Kawase is joined by an exceptional panel of international talent, bringing diverse perspectives and profound experience to the deliberation process.
The jury will feature a fascinating mix of cinematic visionaries, including French Tunisian actor Adam Bessa and Tunisian producer Dora Bouchoucha.
Adding further depth to the panel are renowned figures such as Italian documentary filmmaker Gianfranco Rosi, whose work has captivated audiences worldwide, and an award-winning Palestinian filmmaker and artist, whose unique perspective promises to enrich the festival’s discourse.
This assembly of filmmakers promises an illuminating and richly diverse experience for the films selected for the competition, underscoring the Doha Film Festival’s commitment to celebrating cinematic excellence across borders.