The 78th Cannes Film Festival kicked off with flair and political messages when legendary actor Robert De Niro received the Honorary Palme d’Or, presented by his co-star in Killers of the Flower Moon, Leonardo DiCaprio.
However, what stole the spotlight wasn’t just the award but De Niro’s bold speech addressing issues of art, democracy, and the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump.
“In my country, we are fighting tooth and nail to defend the democracy we once took for granted,” said De Niro.
“Art is democratic. It’s inclusive, it unites people, and celebrates diversity. That’s why art is seen as a threat by autocrats and fascists,” he added.
The 81-year-old actor also criticized Trump’s announcement of plans to impose a 100% tariff on foreign films.
@brutamerica Robert De Niro shared a strong message against Donald Trump’s tariff policies on art and cinema. #cannes2025 ♬ original sound – Brut.
“That ‘philistine’ U.S. President has appointed himself the head of one of our major cultural institutions.
He’s cut funding for the arts, humanities, and education… Now he wants to slap a 100% tariff on foreign films. You can’t put a price on creativity, but apparently, you can tax it,” he continued.
De Niro also urged all lovers of freedom to speak out against Trump, while slamming his administration, which he said “threatens not only the world of art but the values of democracy.”
Trump’s announcement of the foreign film tariff on May 4 has not yet been finalized, and a White House spokesperson stated that the administration is “exploring all options” and has not made an official decision. – BOOM!
