Film Festival Visionary Lili Hinstin Dies at 48

Lili Hinstin, a distinguished figure in the international film festival circuit, has died of cancer at the age of 48. Hinstin was noted for her tenure as artistic director of the Locarno Film Festival from 2018 to 2020, where she notably championed gender equality, increasing the selection of films by female directors to nearly 40% in 2019.

During the challenges of the pandemic, Hinstin demonstrated remarkable foresight by creating the 'Locarno 2020 - For the Future of Films' program and initiating the 'Films After Tomorrow' project, which offered crucial material support to filmmakers. Most recently, she lent her expertise to the Biarritz' Nouvelles Vagues Film Festival in southwestern France, shaping its initial three editions and establishing its presence.

Hinstin's career began in production, and she also ventured into directing with a documentary about her grandfather. Tributes from colleagues and friends highlight her bold vision, intellectual curiosity, and deep commitment to cinema, recognizing her as a rare and influential voice who mentored many in the industry.