Master actor Robert De Niro was awarded the honorary Palme d'Or at the 78th Cannes Film Festival for his unique contributions to the world of cinema. The legendary actor, 81, received the prestigious award from his close friend and colleague Leonardo DiCaprio at the festival's magnificent opening ceremony on Tuesday evening.
DiCaprio's Words of Praise for the Master Actor
Leonardo DiCaprio, who took the stage to present the award, emphasized Robert De Niro's unique place in the world of cinema and his profound influence on many young actors, including himself. DiCaprio expressed his admiration and respect for De Niro by saying, "Growing up in Los Angeles, every young actor I knew watched De Niro's work. We studied him, trying to understand how he could immerse himself so completely in his characters. He created the plan. He was not just another great actor, he was the actor."
De Niro Appreciates Festival and Criticizes Trump
De Niro made an emotional speech while accepting his award, thanking the Cannes Film Festival for honoring him. However, De Niro later touched on an important topic in his speech, harshly criticizing former US President Donald Trump, who recently announced his intention to impose tariffs on films produced outside the United States.
De Niro emphasized the importance of art and cultural diversity, saying, “Art is real. Art embraces diversity. And that’s why art is a threat to autocrats and fascists around the world. America’s ignorant president has been appointed to head one of America’s leading cultural institutions. He has cut funding and support for the arts, humanities, and education. And now he’s announced that he’s going to impose 100 percent tariffs on films made outside the United States. You can’t put a price on a connection.” De Niro’s words resonated greatly in the hall and clearly revealed the art world’s concerns about Trump’s potential policies.
