Laura Wandel – ALLIANCE OF WOMEN FILM JOURNALISTS

CANNES 2026 Film Festival Jury – Diane Carson reports

May 27, 2026June 1, 2026 Diane Carson 2026 Cannes International Film Festival Jury, Cannes 2026, chloe zhao, demi moore, Didier Allouch, Diego Céspedes, Isaach de Bankolé, Laura Wandel, Park Chan Wook, PAUL LAVERTY, Ruth Negga, Stellan Skarsgård

Asked by moderator Didier Allouch their reactions upon receiving the call inviting them to serve on this year’s jury, to a person each of the jurors expressed their delight at the honor. U.K. writer Paul Laverty said he immediately wondered if it was a hoax, his three sons “up to some mischief.” Director/writer Chloé Zhao described the upcoming days as a master class with those whose work she admired. Ethiopian/Irish actress Ruth Negga said, “My heart skipped a beat. This feels like poetry . . . the honor and privilege of a lifetime with such extraordinary artists.” American actress Demi Moore reiterated feeling “tremendously honored.” With amusement, Swedish actor Stellan Skarsgård’s commented, “Finally. I’m so relieved I didn’t die first.” Concluding this round, Park Chan-wook humbly wondered if he was up to the task.

Reviews

PLAYGROUND – Review by April Neale

January 22, 2022January 23, 2022 April Neale Belgian films, Günter Duret, Laura Verlinden, Laura Wandel, Maya Vanderbeque, Playground

Belgian indie film Playground is a modern snapshot of a story as old as humanity, learning how to fit in, make friends and survive. Never easy, especially today, where childhood social interactions are exacerbated by social media and seemingly handled differently across the Atlantic. Laura Wandel’s stunning and intimate look inside the world of seven-year-old Nora will resonate because we all went through the trials and tribulations of school. The film is tough to watch, but it’s an excellent tool for any parents in a situation where they know their kid is a target of bullying at school.