The 79th Cannes Film Festival has begun, marking the start of 12 days of premieres and cinematic events leading up to the Palme d’Or presentation on 23 May. The opening day featured a mix of tributes, political commentary, and unexpected appearances, setting a dynamic tone for the festival.
Filmmaker Peter Jackson received an honorary Palme d’Or, introduced by actor Elijah Wood. Jackson expressed surprise, saying, 'I've never figured out why I’m getting a Palme d’Or. I’m not a Palme d’Or sorta guy.' The tribute concluded with a rendition of the Beatles' 'Get Back,' referencing Jackson's 2021 documentary.
Jane Fonda and Gong Li officially declared the festival open. Fonda delivered a poignant message, asserting that 'Cinema has always been an act of resistance.' The jury, led by South Korean director Park Chan-wook, addressed political issues. Scottish screenwriter Paul Laverty criticised Hollywood for blacklisting actors like Susan Sarandon, Javier Bardem, and Mark Ruffalo over their views on Gaza, quoting King Lear: 'Madmen lead the blind.'
Park Chan-wook defended the role of politics in art, stating, 'Art and politics are not concepts that are in conflict with each other.' The jury includes Chloé Zhao, Stellan Skarsgård, Ruth Negga, and Demi Moore. James Franco made a red carpet appearance; Cannes has previously hosted figures who faced backlash in Hollywood. In 2021, Franco settled a lawsuit alleging sexual exploitation of students.
Guillermo del Toro presented a 4K restoration of 'Pan’s Labyrinth' two decades after its premiere. He noted the film's continued relevance, saying, 'We are, unfortunately, in times that make this movie more pertinent than ever.'
