Denzel Washington stands his ground with unwavering resolve. The Academy Award-winning actor found himself in a brief altercation with paparazzi on the red carpet for the May 19th premiere of his film, Highest 2 Lowest, at the prestigious 78th annual Cannes Film Festival. Prior to this exchange, captured vividly on video, the 70-year-old Denzel was engaged in animated conversation with his co-star, A$AP Rocky, as a throng of photographers called out their names. Just as director Spike Lee approached to converse with the rapper, Denzel shifted his focus to one photographer, striding towards him and engaging in what appeared to be a heated discussion. The photographer responded by laughing and playfully grabbing Denzel's arm.
The Equalizer star then seemed to mouth the words, "stop it, stop it," while pointing directly at one photographer, before calmly disengaging and continuing on his way. Despite this minor hiccup on the red carpet, the Training Day star's cinematic contributions were still celebrated, with his infectious smile shining through. Inside the theater, Denzel, Spike, and A$AP received a standing ovation for their work in the film, marking Denzel and Spike's first collaboration in nearly two decades.
However, it was the unexpected presentation of an honorary Palme d’Or to Denzel that truly moved him. This prestigious honor, greeted by another standing ovation and bestowed upon him by his long-time friend and collaborator, has only been awarded to 21 other individuals for their exemplary work in film. (Earlier in the festival, on May 13th, Robert de Niro had also been honored with this distinction.)
"This is a complete surprise for me, and it has left me deeply emotional," Denzel told the gathered crowd, having collaborated with Spike on five films over the years. "It's a wonderful opportunity to work with my brother from another mother once again, and to be back here in Cannes. We are an incredibly fortunate group, privileged to make movies, to don tuxedos and fine attire, to be celebrated and compensated for our craft."
"We are beyond blessed," he added. "I am beyond blessed. From the depths of my heart, I thank you all."
