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Kering has unveiled its initial lineup for the 2025 Women in Motion Talks, presented in partnership with Variety at the Cannes Film Festival. This year’s series promises candid, high-profile conversations with some of the most influential women shaping contemporary cinema — in front of and behind the camera.
The talks begin on May 16, when Variety’s Tatiana Siegel will moderate a conversation featuring filmmaker Gaya Jiji, director and screenwriter Rungano Nyoni, and actors Amina Khalil and Sarah Taibah. The discussion will focus on the Red Sea Film Festival and the broader implications for representation and visibility in global cinema.
On May 17, acclaimed French actress and musician Charlotte Gainsbourg will take the stage with Variety’s Angelique Jackson. Gainsbourg currently stars in “Étoile,” the new Prime Video series from Amy Sherman-Palladino and Daniel Palladino, in which she plays opposite Luke Kirby.
Nicole Kidman will be the centerpiece of the May 18 event, speaking with Jackson just before receiving Kering’s 10th annual Women in Motion Award. The honor places her among a prestigious list of past recipients including Michelle Yeoh, Viola Davis, Salma Hayek Pinault, Patty Jenkins, and Jane Fonda. Kidman’s recognition underscores her enduring influence and commitment to powerful storytelling through film.
On May 19, Dakota Johnson and Ro Donnelly — co-founders of Tea Time Pictures — will join Jackson to discuss Splitsville, the new film they produced and Johnson stars in. Directed and written by Michael Angelo Covino, the project is making its premiere at Cannes, highlighting the duo’s growing impact as producers.
Taraji P. Henson will appear on May 20 alongside Dr. Stacy L. Smith, founder of the Annenberg Inclusion Initiative. Their discussion, also moderated by Jackson, will address inclusion, data-driven change, and systemic barriers in the film industry.
The final talk, set for May 23, will feature filmmaker Carla Simón discussing her new film Romería, which is competing for the Palme d’Or. Simón’s previous works, Summer 1993 and Alcarràs, earned her critical acclaim, but Romería marks her first entry in Cannes’ main competition.
Kering’s Women in Motion initiative continues to spotlight gender equality in cinema, amplifying the voices of women creating impact across all facets of film. All talks are invitation-only but will be streamed on Variety.com and Kering’s social media platforms using the hashtag #WomenInMotion.
