Michel Franco joins Golden Apricot jury

PanARMENIAN.Net - The evaluation of the Koriz short film competition at the 23rd Golden Apricot International Film Festival has once again been entrusted to a single mentor-juror for 2026, following the format introduced last year.

While the role was carried out in 2025 by director and cinematographer Fred Kelemen, this year it will be assumed by acclaimed Mexican filmmaker Michel Franco, winner of the Un Certain Regard Grand Prize at the Cannes Film Festival.

"For more than a decade, Franco's films have awakened and stunned global audiences like a cold shower. Within the uncompromising and brutal screen reality he creates, renowned actors including Jessica Chastain, Tim Roth and others have the opportunity to appear in an exceptionally unconventional light," the Golden Apricot Film Festival said in a statement.

The 23rd Golden Apricot International Film Festival will take place in Yerevan from July 12 to 19, 2026. This year's festival will again feature competitive and non-competitive sections showcasing films from around the world, including works presented at leading international film festivals such as Cannes, Berlin and other major cinema platforms.

Internationally acclaimed filmmakers, directors, actors and film industry professionals will travel to Armenia during the festival to share their experience and artistic vision with local audiences, creating a unique platform for dialogue, new ideas and cultural exchange.