Chicago-based film critic Ignatiy Vishnevetsky is joining Roger Ebert’s upcoming movie review show.

Vishnevetsky is replacing the previously announced Elvis Mitchell. No explanation was given for Mitchell’s departure.

The Russian-born Vishnevetsky, 24, writes for the film website Mubi and contributes to the Chicago Reader. He’ll appear alongside co-host Christy Lemire, 38, film critic for the Associated Press.

Ebert lost his ability to speak after cancer surgeries, but will be on the weekly show with a segment in which he communicates with a computer-generated voice. He will executive produce the series in Chicago with his wife, Chaz Ebert.

“Ebert Presents At the Movies” premieres Jan. 22 at 10 p.m. on KSPS-7 in Spokane.

De Niro heads Cannes jury

Robert De Niro will head the jury at this year’s Cannes Film Festival.

The veteran American actor and director will lead a nine-member jury for the May 11-22 festival on the French Riviera.

De Niro’s charisma may provide a Hollywood boost to Cannes. Last year’s event was lighter than usual on star power and featured a lineup that left many critics unimpressed.

The Thai film “Uncle Boonmee Who Can Recall His Past Lives” won the top honor at the 2010 festival, while Academy Award winners Juliette Binoche and Javier Bardem earned acting honors.