George Miller to head Cannes Film Festival jury: 'What an unmitigated delight'

The Australian director said he will serve his time as president "with bells on"

In charge: George Miller will head the jury

John Sciulli/Getty

Emma Powell2 February 2016

Director George Miller has been confirmed to head the jury at the upcoming Cannes Film Festival.

Australian born Miller – who has been nominated for a best director Academy Award for Mad Max: Fury Road – described the invite as an “unmitigated delight”.

In a statement he said: "What an unmitigated delight! To be there in the middle of this storied festival at the unveiling of cinematic treasures from all over the planet.

“To spend time in passionate discourse with fellow members of the jury. Such an honour. I'll be there with bells on!"

Mad Max Premiere

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The festival praised Miller’s experimentation, which has seen him direct films from Babe to Mad Max.

“Throughout his career, George Miller has constantly experimented with a variety of genres, brilliantly reconciling mass audience expectations and the highest artistic standards,” they said in a statement.

"The 2016 Festival de Cannes is all set to welcome a big-hearted film lover and a great human being.”

The 69th annual event will be run from May 11 to 22. Members of Miller’s jury will be announced later this year.