Star-Studded Jury Announced for 2025 Through Her Lens Program: Kaitlyn Dever, Issa Rae Lead Filmmaker Initiative

CULTURE

Culture Summary

The prestigious Through Her Lens: Tribeca Chanel Women's Filmmaker Program announces an impressive lineup of jurors and mentors for its 2025 edition, including acclaimed actresses Kaitlyn Dever, Issa Rae, and Meghann Fahy. The program, celebrating its 10th anniversary, continues its mission to champion emerging women and non-binary filmmakers through funding and creative support.

Full Story

culture and entertainment - The Through Her Lens program, a cornerstone initiative of Tribeca and Chanel's commitment to diverse storytelling, is preparing for a transformative three-day event this September that brings together...

some of Hollywood's most influential voices to mentor the next generation of filmmakers.



The 2025 edition boasts an exceptional jury panel featuring rising stars and established industry veterans including Kaitlyn Dever (fresh off her acclaimed performance in 'No One Will Save You'), Emmy-nominee Issa Rae, 'The White Lotus' breakout Meghann Fahy, Oscar-winner Allison Janney, filmmaker Payal Kapadia, and comedian-actress Jenny Slate.



The program's expansion is evident in its newly appointed Advisory Committee members, with Lucy Liu, Tessa Thompson, and Olivia Wilde joining returning luminaries Jane Fonda, Patty Jenkins, Laura Karpman, A.V. Rockwell, and Kerry Washington. This powerful assembly of industry leaders reflects the program's growing influence in addressing gender disparities behind the camera.



The selected projects for 2025 showcase diverse storytelling perspectives, from Rachel Harrison Gordon's 'Buddy Boy,' which explores racial identity in voice acting, to Karishma Dev Dube's 'Strangers,' examining intimacy in arranged marriages. Other notable projects include 'Cuqui,' 'Smoked,' and 'Tartalo,' each addressing unique cultural narratives and contemporary social issues.



The initiative's impact extends beyond the immediate funding and mentorship, creating a sustained network of support that has helped launch numerous successful careers in the industry. Past participants have gone on to direct major studio projects and receive prestigious awards, demonstrating the program's vital role in reshaping Hollywood's creative landscape.

Expert Analysis & Opinion

Through Her Lens represents a crucial intervention in addressing systemic barriers facing women and non-binary filmmakers in Hollywood. The program's decade-long commitment has proven that intentional mentorship and funding can create meaningful change in industry representation. As the entertainment industry grapples with post-pandemic challenges and evolving audience expectations, initiatives like this become even more vital in ensuring diverse perspectives reach mainstream audiences. The involvement of high-profile industry figures suggests a growing recognition that gender parity behind the camera is essential for the industry's future relevance and success.

Related Topics

#Film Industry#Women in Entertainment#Diversity Initiatives#Tribeca#Filmmaker Development