Juliette Binoche embodies the elegance and rigor of French cinema. Born on March 9, 1964, in Paris, she built a brilliant career from the 1980s. Her talent came to light with Three Colors: Blue, which earned her the César Award for Best Actress in 1994. Three years later, she made her mark in Hollywood by winning the Oscar for Best Supporting Actress for The English Patient.
In 2025, a new recognition awaits her: she is appointed president of the jury of the 78th Cannes Film Festival. An honor that crowns an exceptional trajectory. "In 1985, I climbed the steps for the first time with the enthusiasm and uncertainty of a young actress; I never imagined returning 40 years later in this honorary role of jury president.", she confides with emotion.
A Committed Actress
Beyond the seventh art, Juliette Binoche is a woman of convictions. She actively supports the #MeToo movement and breaks the silence on violence in the film industry. In April 2024, she testifies about the assaults she suffered during her career. She notably mentions an incident on the set of Liberty Belle in 1982, where director Pascal Kané tried to kiss her forcibly. "I pushed him away vigorously.", she asserts. She also reveals an assault on the set of Rendez-vous by André Téchiné, when a hand imposed itself without consent.
In the face of these revelations, she is not isolated. In May 2024, she co-signs a petition alongside a hundred personalities calling for a comprehensive law against sexual violence. "Our #MeToo speeches have revealed a reality steeped in denial: sexist and sexual violence is systemic, not exceptional.", declare the signatories. Her commitment, courageous and uncompromising, earns her both praise and criticism.
Between Controversies and Admiration
While Juliette Binoche is admired, she does not escape controversies. In 2010, Gérard Depardieu harshly criticized her talent: "I really want to know why she has been so esteemed for so many years. She has nothing – absolutely nothing.". A scathing remark that provoked a wave of indignation. Annie Duperey, outraged, urged the actor to "shut his mouth", a reprimand immediately sanctioned by the prevailing omerta.
More recently, her political stances and feminist activism have sparked mixed reactions. Some criticize her for being too outspoken, while others praise her courage and integrity. Juliette Binoche does not compromise. She continues to speak out, refusing to bow to the dictates of silence.
A Complete Artist
Her artistic expression is not limited to cinema. In 2008, she explored dance with choreographer Akram Khan, delivering an intense and inhabited performance in in-i. In 2015, she returned to the stage with Antigone, where she played the title role with striking tragic force. Juliette Binoche continues to push the boundaries of her art, asserting her taste for experimentation and risk-taking.
A Bold Future
At 60, Juliette Binoche remains an essential figure. Actress, activist, multifaceted artist, she continues her journey with rare freedom. Despite controversies, she continues to inspire and challenge, true to her quest for truth and authenticity. Her piercing gaze on the world of cinema and society does not waver. And tomorrow? We await her, always where she is least expected.
