Veteran Hollywood filmmaker Quentin Tarantino inaugurated the 78th Cannes Film Festival at the Grand Théâtre Lumière on Wednesday. The grand opening saw global film personalities in attendance. Tarantino proudly declared the festival open. The event began with the screening of French filmmaker Emilie Bonin’s film Partier un jour (Leave One Day).
Earlier, Leonardo DiCaprio honoured legendary actor Robert De Niro with the Honorary Palme d’Or. The festival also introduced the main jury led by Juliette Binoche. Indian filmmaker Payal Kapadia, whose film All We Imagine As Light won the Grand Prix last year, is part of the jury. Her inclusion marks a major recognition for Indian cinema, as few Indians have served on the Cannes jury in its 78-year history.
Tributes and Political Statements
DiCaprio praised De Niro as a global role model for actors. He said De Niro redefined acting with his deep physical transformation for roles. He called watching De Niro’s work the best acting training for young talents. Recalling their collaboration on Killers of the Flower Moon, DiCaprio said it was the most meaningful experience of his life.
In his speech, De Niro criticised U.S. President Donald Trump’s plan to impose a 100% tariff on non-American films. He called for global resistance against such policies, warning they endanger democracy and the arts. De Niro said Trump’s budget cuts to culture and education are damaging. He stressed that artists must unite to protect freedom of expression. He also recalled his long association with Cannes, which began in 1973.
Global Concerns and Festival Highlights
Jury president Juliette Binoche expressed grief over the death of Gaza photojournalist Fatima Hassoun. Hassoun and ten family members died in a missile attack on April 16, shortly after learning her film was selected for Cannes. Binoche read her last words, honouring her memory and calling on filmmakers to stand against attacks on artists worldwide. The event also paid tribute to director David Lynch.
The world premiere of Mission Impossible – The Final Reckoning, directed by Christopher McQuarrie, drew major attention. A master class featuring him is scheduled. The festival continues its Immersive Competition section launched last year, with nine AI and VR-based films. An exhibition of experimental audio-visual and tech-based projects by young creators is also underway.
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