Acclaimed filmmaker Jane Campion discussed the impact of Greta Gerwig’s success with “Barbie” and her plans for a new film project at a recent ceremony in Switzerland. Campion, known for movies like “The Piano” and “The Power of the Dog,” was honored at the Locarno Film Festival with a lifetime achievement award.
In her acceptance speech, Campion highlighted how “Barbie” became the highest-grossing movie directed by a woman, making over $1 billion worldwide. “It’s great to see a non-superhero film succeed, especially one that takes a creative look at Barbie and Mattel,” Campion said. She noted that Gerwig’s accomplishment shows “women can be trusted with big budgets.”
Campion is the only woman to have won the top Palme d’Or prize at the Cannes Film Festival for “The Piano” in 1993. She spoke about facing challenges as a female director in the past. Campion recalled a photo from 2017 of past Palme d’Or winners where she was the sole woman among men. “It really stood out,” she said. Campion acknowledged the industry has advanced, with other women like Julie Ducournau and Justine Triet winning Palme d’Or awards in recent years.
Although she considered retiring after “The Power of the Dog,” Campion is actively developing a new film. She had planned a pop-up film school in New Zealand but got inspired to keep directing after the acclaim for her last movie. “I feel lucky that people think I can make another great film,” Campion said. Known for thought-provoking stories in movies spanning decades, audiences and critics look forward to her next project.
Campion’s praise of “Barbie” highlights progress for women in film, while her continued work symbolizes still more to come from a renowned director.
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