A Rare Interview with Juliette Binoche: The New President of the European Film Academy
Juliette Binoche, a name synonymous with cinematic excellence, is now stepping into a new chapter of her illustrious career. Having won numerous accolades, including an Oscar, a César, and a Golden Bear, she is embarking on an important role as the new President of the European Film Academy (EFA) in 2024. Following in the footsteps of iconic filmmakers like Agnieszka Holland, Wim Wenders, and Ingmar Bergman, Binoche’s appointment marks a significant shift for the EFA. In an exclusive interview with Euronews Culture, she shared her thoughts on her new role, the future of European cinema, and the enduring power of film.
Binoche, whose career boasts nearly 100 acting credits, is known for her collaborations with visionary directors such as Jean-Luc Godard, Michael Haneke, and Claire Denis. She has portrayed a diverse range of characters from Mary Magdalene to a sculptor in Camille Claudel 1915, and even a kaiju-expert in Godzilla. Her expansive career in both European and Hollywood cinema has earned her a reputation as one of the most respected actresses in the industry.
Her new role as the EFA president comes at a time when European cinema is facing both challenges and exciting opportunities. Binoche expressed her excitement about joining the academy, which was founded in 1989 following the fall of the Berlin Wall to unite Eastern and Western Europe. “It means a lot to me,” she said, acknowledging the responsibility of representing a culturally diverse Europe through cinema. She emphasised the need to support young filmmakers, noting the inclusion of countries like Turkey, Ukraine, and Palestine in the Academy, expanding its reach beyond traditional European boundaries.
When asked if her new position would affect her acting career, Binoche laughed, saying, “No, I don’t think so. I want to do everything!” She explained that while her new role requires her to be involved in selecting lifetime achievement award speeches and speeches at the European Film Awards, she is not part of the selection board that chooses films for the Academy’s nominations. This allows her to continue her acting career, most recently seen in The Return, a modern retelling of Homer’s Odyssey, alongside Ralph Fiennes. The film is due for release later this year.
Binoche’s appointment also aligns with the growing diversity in European filmmaking, with films this year like Emilia Pérez, The Seed of the Sacred Fig, and Dahomey exploring social and political issues. The actress agrees with her predecessor Agnieszka Holland’s stance that filmmakers need to be more outspoken, especially in today’s complex global landscape. “There have been a lot of wars in the past, and we need to hear those stories, especially for victims not to be forgotten,” Binoche reflected, highlighting the importance of using cinema to give voice to the marginalized and address critical societal issues.
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Another hot topic in the conversation was the treatment of women in cinema, especially in light of recent discussions around #MeToo. Binoche acknowledged the significant progress made but also pointed out that the reckoning has been slower in Europe than in the United States. “A lot of women are speaking out, but not a lot of men are doing the same,” she observed, stressing the need for a more inclusive dialogue on set. As an actress who has worked in both the US and Europe, Binoche shared her experience of working in systems rather than with directors. “You have to use your intuition as an actress. You have to be able to say ‘no’ or ‘yes,’” she said, emphasising the importance of trust and mutual respect on set.
In addition to her reflections on European cinema, Binoche spoke passionately about her vision for the future of film. “Any art form has the possibility of touching someone’s life and putting things in question,” she said. For Binoche, cinema is not just about entertainment but about sparking introspection and dialogue. “When I go to see a movie, I want something for my life to be nourished, for my life to be different,” she explained, underscoring the profound emotional impact films can have on audiences. “If you can touch one person, only one person, it’s worth it.”
Her commitment to re-humanising society through cinema is clear. In an age where films are often consumed rapidly and in vast quantities, Binoche encourages audiences to carefully choose what they watch, seeking films that will change them or spark a meaningful conversation. She recalled a touching moment when a viewer told her that the film Damage had changed their life, reinforcing her belief that cinema can be a powerful tool for personal transformation.
As the new President of the European Film Academy, Juliette Binoche is poised to continue her remarkable legacy both as an actress and a champion of European cinema. With her deep understanding of the art and her passion for fostering new talent, she is set to make a lasting impact on the industry, ensuring that European films continue to thrive and challenge audiences worldwide.
