Denzel Washington surprises Cannes with honorary Palme d'Or

At the Cannes Film Festival held in France, Denzel Washington made a brief trip between his Broadway performances to attend the premiere of Spike Lee's film, 'Highest 2 Lowest,' on Monday. This event was significant as it occurred during his only day off from his role in 'Othello' in New York. To accommodate Washington's hectic schedule, the festival adjusted some of its programming to allow him to participate in the premiere. In a surprising twist, Washington was presented with an honorary Palme d'Or just before the film's screening, an unexpected honor that left him visibly moved. The festival's head, Thierry Frémaux, awarded Washington with the Palme d'Or, highlighting the actor's significant contributions to the film industry. Washington, who did not anticipate receiving the award, expressed his gratitude during the event. This gesture followed the festival's longstanding tradition of honoring influential figures in cinema, with previous recipients including notable filmmakers and artists. The event also featured the film's co-star, A$AP Rocky, and a special appearance by Rihanna, who walked the red carpet shortly after the premiere and had earlier revealed her pregnancy at the Met Gala. Spike Lee, the director of 'Highest 2 Lowest,' emphasized the value of Washington's appearance at Cannes, acknowledging the effort required for him to make the trip from New York. During the festival's photo call, Washington exhibited no signs of exhaustion, playfully engaging with Lee and A$AP Rocky. This premiere was particularly important for Lee, as he had plans closely tied to his New York commitments, showcasing the cultural interplay between cinema and theater among influential figures in the entertainment sector. The film, 'Highest 2 Lowest,' is a remake of Akira Kurosawa's 1963 classic, 'High and Low.' It is set to be released in theaters by A24 on August 22, followed by availability for streaming on Apple TV+ starting September 5. Such remakes of classic films prompt discussion about their relevance and interpretation in today's cultural landscape. This Cannes event represents not just a moment of celebration for Washington but also a reminder of the interconnected nature of film and theater, especially for artists actively engaging in multiple mediums.