Jane Campion, a trailblazer in the film industry, thought she had reached the pinnacle of her career when she completed the Oscar-winning film, The Power of the Dog. With a desire to give back to aspiring filmmakers, she set her sights on running a pop-up school in her native New Zealand. At 70 years old, Campion reflects on her journey as a female director who entered an almost completely male-dominated field in the early ’80s. Despite facing adversity, she continued to push boundaries and challenge the status quo.
Campion’s groundbreaking win for The Piano in 1993 catapulted her to international acclaim. However, being the only woman among past winners of the Palme D’Or at the Cannes Film Festival in 2017 highlighted the persistent gender disparity in the industry. Campion recalls the shock of seeing herself as the sole female director in the group, emphasizing the need for more diversity and representation in filmmaking. Despite the challenges she faced, Campion persevered and blazed a trail for future generations of female directors.
As a seasoned filmmaker, Campion has taken on the role of mentor to younger directors like Justine Triet and Julia Ducournau. Triet’s win for Anatomy of a Fall at Cannes in 2023 marked a significant achievement for female directors, showcasing the talent and creativity of women in the industry. Campion’s support and guidance have helped pave the way for emerging female filmmakers to make their mark on the world stage. With the success of films like Barbie, directed by Greta Gerwig, there is renewed hope for more diverse and inclusive storytelling in cinema.
Despite her successes, Campion has faced criticism for some of her films that were not well-received at the time of their release. The adaptation of Portrait of a Lady in 1996 and In the Cut in 2003 faced backlash from critics and audiences alike. However, Campion’s resilience and determination to push boundaries have led to a reevaluation of these works in recent years. With a renewed appreciation for her unique storytelling and bold vision, Campion continues to inspire audiences and filmmakers alike.
As Campion receives a lifetime achievement award at the Locarno Film Festival, she reflects on her journey and the evolving landscape of the film industry. With a new generation of filmmakers breaking barriers and challenging conventions, Campion remains optimistic about the future of cinema. Her legacy as a pioneer in the industry continues to inspire and empower aspiring filmmakers to tell their stories and make their voices heard. As the festival draws to a close, Campion’s influence and impact on the world of cinema are undeniable, shaping the future of filmmaking for generations to come.
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