The Cannes Film Festival stunned audiences as iconic American actor Denzel Washington was bestowed with an honorary Palme d’Or in recognition of his illustrious four-decade career. The prestigious award was presented by acclaimed director Spike Lee, alongside festival luminaries Thierry Frémaux and Iris Knobloch, underscoring Washington’s enduring impact on the film industry. Emotions ran high as Washington, attending the festival for the first time, expressed gratitude for the unexpected honor, calling it a “total surprise”. A poignant montage of Washington’s cinematic highlights, including standout performances in seminal works like “Malcolm X” and “Mo’ Better Blues”, underscored his artistic brilliance. Renowned for his Oscar-winning role in “Glory” and acclaimed turn in “Training Day”, Washington’s versatility and talent have cemented his status as a cinematic legend. His presence at Cannes coincided with the premiere of Lee’s latest film “Highest 2 Lowest”, marking a long-awaited reunion between the two titans of cinema. Washington’s whirlwind visit to the festival, squeezed between stage performances of “Othello” on Broadway, added a touch of theatrical flair to the celebration. Notably, Washington joins fellow American actor Robert De Niro in receiving this prestigious accolade, underscoring his enduring influence on global cinema. (Source: Africa News, AP, RFI)
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