At the 27th Shanghai International Film Festival, renowned British director Kim Longinotto took the helm as president of the documentary jury. In an exclusive interview, she opened up about what drew her to the festival and shared her unique perspective on the evolving landscape of cinema.
Longinotto, celebrated for her impactful documentaries that often highlight women’s stories from around the world, expressed her excitement about being part of the festival. “Shanghai is a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage,” she said. “Being here allows me to witness firsthand the incredible talent and stories that filmmakers are bringing to the world.”
When discussing Hollywood’s growing superhero fatigue, Longinotto noted that audiences are craving authenticity. “Films resonate most when they feel genuine,” she explained. “When people see themselves reflected on screen and are moved emotionally, they’re more likely to connect with the story.”
She emphasized the importance of diversity in filmmaking, encouraging creators to tell stories that are true to their experiences. “There’s a whole world of narratives waiting to be explored,” Longinotto said. “By embracing different perspectives, we enrich the global film community.”
As she leads the documentary jury, Longinotto looks forward to celebrating films that capture the essence of real life. “Documentaries have the power to inspire change and foster understanding,” she remarked. “I’m honored to be part of this journey at the Shanghai International Film Festival.”
Reference(s):
One-on-one with SIFF documentary jury president Kim Longinotto
cgtn.com
