Jeremy Irons will head Berlin's International Jury Photo: © Antonello&Montesi/Courtesy of Berlin Film Festival |
The star - who won a Best Acting Oscar for Reversal Of Fortune in 1991 - said: “It is with feelings of great pleasure and not inconsiderable honour that I take on the role of president of the International Jury for the Berlinale 2020, a festival that I have admired for so long and that I have always enjoyed attending.
"Being in Berlin for the festival will be a treat, giving me the opportunity not only to remind myself of that great city but also to watch this year’s crop of films chosen by the festival, followed by the opportunity to discuss their merits with my fellow jury members,”
The festival celebrates its 70th edition this year with a new artistic director Carlo Chatrian and executive director Mariette Rissenbeek at the helm.
Chatrain said: "With his distinctive style, Jeremy Irons has embodied some iconic characters that have accompanied me throughout my journey in cinema, making me aware of the complexity of human beings. His talent and the choices he has taken both as an artist and as a citizen make me feel proud to welcome him as president of the Jury for the 70th edition of the Berlinale."
The festival runs from February 20 to March 3.