Career Timeline of Jane Campion: Major Achievements and Milestones

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: February 21, 2025

Discover the career path of Jane Campion, from the first major opportunity to industry-changing achievements.

Jane Campion is a highly acclaimed New Zealand filmmaker recognized for her directorial and screenwriting prowess, particularly in the films *The Piano* and *The Power of the Dog*. Her work has garnered significant recognition including multiple Academy Awards, BAFTA Awards, and Golden Globe Awards. She was appointed Dame Companion of the New Zealand Order of Merit in 2016 for her contributions to film.

Sections (2)

Full Timeline Career & Achievements

1980: Creation of "Tissues"

In 1980, Jane Campion created her first short film, "Tissues".

1982: Release of "Peel"

In 1982, Jane Campion's first short film, "Peel", was released.

1983: Release of "Passionless Moments"

In 1983, Jane Campion's short film, "Passionless Moments", was released.

1984: Releases of "A Girl's Own Story" and "After Hours"

In 1984, Jane Campion's short films "A Girl's Own Story" and "After Hours" were released.

1986: Awards and Directing roles

In 1986, Jane Campion's "Peel" won the Short Film Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival and she directed an episode of Dancing Daze.

1989: Release of "Sweetie"

In 1989, Jane Campion's feature debut, "Sweetie", was released and won international awards.

1990: Release of "An Angel at My Table"

In 1990, "An Angel at My Table", a biopic about Janet Frame directed by Jane Campion, was released.

1993: Release of "The Piano"

In 1993, "The Piano", written and directed by Jane Campion, was released. It was critically acclaimed.

1993: "The Piano" wins Palme d'Or

In 1993, Jane Campion's film "The Piano" won the Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival.

1994: Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay

In 1994, Jane Campion won an Academy Award for Best Original Screenplay for her movie "The Piano".

1996: Direction of "The Portrait of a Lady"

In 1996, Jane Campion directed the film "The Portrait of a Lady".

1998: Direction of "Holy Smoke!"

In 1998, Jane Campion directed the film "Holy Smoke!".

1999: Release of "Holy Smoke!"

In 1999, Jane Campion's film "Holy Smoke!" was released.

2003: Release of "In the Cut"

In 2003, Jane Campion's film "In the Cut" was released.

2006: Production of "Abduction: The Megumi Yokota Story"

In 2006, Jane Campion produced "Abduction: The Megumi Yokota Story".

2009: Direction of "Bright Star"

In 2009, Jane Campion directed the film "Bright Star".

2013: Co-creation of "Top of the Lake"

In 2013, Jane Campion co-created the television series "Top of the Lake".

2014: Head of Jury at Cannes Film Festival and potential film adaptation

In 2014, Jane Campion was the head of the jury for the main competition section of the Cannes Film Festival and was nearing a deal to direct an adaptation of The Flamethrowers.