2022 Berlin Film Festival: M. Night Shyamalan Named as President of Jury

M. Night Shyamalan at the New York premiere of
M. Night Shyamalan at the New York premiere of "Old" in July. Photo by Andrew H. Walker/Shutterstock (12222006bu)

The Berlin International Film Festival is set to return to Germany this winter, and its jury is already shaping up to be amazing. M. Night Shyamalan will serve as the jury president of the upcoming edition of the prestigious festival, set to take place between February 10-20, 2022.

In an official statement announcing his involvement, Shyamalan said he always felt like an independent filmmaker within the system of Hollywood and that’s why he considers the invitation to preside over the Berlinale jury as a great honor.

“Being asked to be a part of Berlinale is deeply meaningful to me. It represents the highest imprimatur for a filmmaker. Being able to support and celebrate the world’s very best talent in storytelling is a gift I happily accepted,” said the Oscar-nominated filmmaker.

Berlinale’s artistic director Carlo Chatrian echoed his statement, and said they’re honored to have Shyamalan accept their invitation, and described him as “a unique figure” and “a filmmaker that has remained faithful to his vision.”

Shyamalan’s most recent credits include psychological thrillers Glass and Old, both of which found a significant box office success on a relatively small budget. He also recently severed as the executive producer of the Apple TV+ series Servant.