Chinese dissident Ai Weiwei has been chosen as one of the judges for the Stockholm Film Festival despite the fact he is not expected to be allowed to attend the event in person. The artist, who has his movements monitored by Chinese authorities, was selected because he is viewed as a symbol of the repression of journalists and artists, explained festival director Git Scheynius.
Scheynius described Weiwei as one of the world’s most interesting artists. She pointed out that he is not allowed to express himself and has spent time in prison because of his regime-critical views, adding that Beijing is not likely to allow him to attend the festival. However, the director said he is delighted to have been named a judge and looks forward to being part of the event as he loves films.
The Stockholm Film Festival has chosen ‘Freedom’ as its theme this year, and Scheynius explained that they want to highlight the plight of artists and journalists unable to carry out their work without being censored. She said that they are doing this to pressurise Chinese authorities.
Organisers said that Weiwei currently has no internet access, but Scheynius said she was optimistic he could be involved. The festival will commence on 6 November and will feature over 180 films from more than 50 countries.