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The New York Observer

Sean Penn to Helm Cannes Jury

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January 3, 2008 | 9:51 a.m.
Sean Penn at Cannes in 2004.<br /> (Getty Images)
Sean Penn at Cannes in 2004.
Getty Images

Sean Penn has been named the jury president for this year's Cannes fest, being held from May 14-25. He directed critically acclaimed drama Into the Wild this year and won an Oscar for his role as a revenge-seeking father in Mystic River. Mr. Penn also won the best male performance prize at Cannes in 1997 for She's So Lovely by Nick Cassavetes.

According to the Associates Press:

Penn said in a statement "that a new generation of filmmaking may have begun," citing "increasingly thoughtful, provocative, moving, and imaginative films by talented filmmakers" in what appeared to be "a rejuvenation of cinema building worldwide."

"The Cannes Film Festival has long been the epicenter in the discovery of those new waves of filmmakers from all over the world. I very much look forward to participating in this year's festival as president of the jury," Penn said.

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