Meryl Streep receives honorary Palme d’Or at Cannes Film Festival 2024

The Cannes Film Festival kick started with glamour on Tuesday night, unfolding under the glitz of the Grand Theatre Lumiere. A star-studded red carpet welcomed celebrities, culminating in a ceremony honouring the legendary Meryl Streep.

Before settling in to watch The Second Act, the opening film of the festival, the audience witnessed a heartwarming tribute to Hollywood artiste. Actresses Lea Seydoux and Vincent Lindon, along with Jane Fonda, Heidi Klum, and even Messi, the canine star of last year's Palme d’Or winner Anatomy of a Fall, graced the red carpet. This year’s jury, led by Greta Gerwig, also added their presence to the occasion.

A unique moment unfolded as French singer Zaho de Sagazan serenaded Gerwig with David Bowie's Modern Love in the theatre aisles. This serenade held a special significance, referencing the iconic black-and-white dance scene in Gerwig’s film Frances Ha. 

The highlight, however, arrived when Meryl stepped onto the stage. Adorned in a simple white gown and black-framed glasses, she was met with a thunderous, minute-long ovation. French actress Juliette Binoche, dressed in a vibrant red dress, welcomed her with a heartfelt speech.

“You changed the way we look at women in cinema,” Juliette declared, her voice thick with emotion. A touch of humour lightened the mood as she added, “And yet, you are not self-serious, like me.”

Meryl, whose illustrious career boasts films like Death Becomes Her, Mamma Mia!, and The Iron Lady, responded with a list of heartfelt thank yous. A montage showcasing her extensive filmography played in the background, prompting the artiste to remark, “It's like looking out the window of a bullet train.”

With a touch of wit, she addressed the audience, acknowledging the fleeting nature of time. “My mother, who was usually right about everything, said to me 'Meryl, darling, you'll see. It all goes so fast. So fast.' And it has. Except for my speech,” she quipped, sparking laughter throughout the theatre.

The Cannes Film Festival officially kicked off with a night of cinematic celebration, honouring a legend and setting the stage for a week of dazzling premieres and captivating stories.