The 28th Shanghai International Film Festival has announced that the celebrated actor Tony Leung Chiu-wai will serve as the president of the jury for its prestigious Golden Goblet Awards. This appointment highlights Leung's enduring influence and esteemed career spanning over four decades in Chinese-language cinema and beyond. His participation is set to bring a wealth of experience and critical insight to one of Asia's most significant film events, further elevating the festival's international profile.

Celebrated Actor Tony Leung Chiu-wai to Lead Shanghai Film Festival's Golden Goblet Jury

In an exciting development for the global cinematic landscape, on April 28, 2026, the 28th Shanghai International Film Festival revealed that the legendary Hong Kong actor, Tony Leung Chiu-wai, will preside over the jury for its main competition, the Golden Goblet Awards. The festival is slated to commence on June 12 and will run through June 21, promising a vibrant celebration of international and Chinese cinema.

Tony Leung's career, which began in 1982 with his first on-screen appearance in 1983, is a testament to his profound talent and versatility. Over more than 40 years, he has accumulated over a hundred film credits, collaborating with an illustrious roster of world-renowned directors including Wong Kar-wai, Zhang Yimou, Ang Lee, John Woo, Hou Hsiao-hsien, Tran Anh Hung, and Ildikó Enyedi. His performances are celebrated for their deep, controlled interiority, captivating audiences and critics alike across diverse genres.

Notable roles include the witty Ouyang Feng in Jeffrey Lau's "The Eagle Shooting Heroes," the melancholic Chow Mo-wan in Wong Kar-wai's iconic "In the Mood for Love," and the conflicted warrior Broken Sword in Zhang Yimou's epic "Hero." These roles showcase his ability to imbue characters with complex emotions, making them resonate far beyond the Chinese-speaking world.

Just three years prior, at the 80th Venice International Film Festival, Leung was honored with the Golden Lion for lifetime achievement, a historic first for a Chinese actor. During the tribute, acclaimed director Ang Lee lauded Leung as an exemplary performer, one who completely immerses himself in his roles and elevates the artistry of everyone involved in a production. Leung himself, in a video message accompanying the announcement, eloquently stated, "Cinema is the art of dreaming, and Shanghai is the very vessel on which the Chinese film dream set sail," beautifully connecting his role to the festival's historic significance.

As Shanghai, a UNESCO City of Film and the birthplace of Chinese cinema, hosts this annual event, the Golden Goblet Awards continue to be recognized among Asia's most prestigious film accolades. Leung's leadership is anticipated to bring a distinguished perspective to the jury's deliberations, further solidifying the festival's reputation as a pivotal platform for cinematic excellence.

Tony Leung's appointment as jury president is a momentous occasion, not only for the Shanghai International Film Festival but for the entire global film community. It underscores the festival's commitment to recognizing artistic excellence and celebrates a career that has consistently pushed boundaries and inspired countless individuals. His profound understanding of the craft and his nuanced performances will undoubtedly bring a unique and invaluable perspective to the judging process, enriching the experience for filmmakers and audiences alike. This decision reflects a broader appreciation for his contributions to cinema and sets a high bar for the celebration of international film.