George Lucas receives Honorary Palme d’Or from Francis Ford Coppola at Cannes; ‘The world is here, proud to honor you’

Francis Ford Coppola, Lucas's longtime mentor, creative partner, and confidant, shared the limelight with him after he gave him the prized award. (Image via X)

The concluding day of one of the most prestigious and distinguished film festivals in the world took the opportunity to celebrate and honor George Lucas, the legendary creator of the multi-billion dollar Star Wars and Indiana Jones franchises.

Amidst a stirring scene, Lucas found himself sharing the spotlight with his enduring confidant, guide, and creative comrade, Francis Ford Coppola, who bestowed upon him the coveted accolade. As Lucas graced the stage, an eruption of applause filled the air, as the audience rose to their feet, offering an impassioned five-minute tribute to the visionary filmmaker.

Giving the crowd a thumbs up, his eyes glistening with tears. As Coppola stepped onto the stage, their hearts reunited in an embrace, sharing intimate words privately.

During his speech, Coppola reminisced about the first encounter with Lucas, wherein the latter trailed him amidst the filming of "Finian’s Rainbow" back in 1968. “Pleased to have someone in my own generation, I suggested he come every day, but only on one condition: That he come up with a brilliant suggestion every day, which he consistently did. And with that began an association that has lasted a lifetime,” remarked the auteur.

He further noted, as per 'Variety', that Lucas encountered a setback when the custodians of the 'Flash Gordon' comic strip declined his proposal for a cinematic rendition. “He looked at me and he said, ‘Well, I’ll make my own movie, I’ll call it “Star Battles” or “Star Wars” or something.’ And so he did, and in the process risked everything he had to make it,” said ‘The Godfather’ creator. “Congratulations George, not only am I and your many friends proud of you, but the world is here, proud to honor you.”

Reflecting on his uniquely remarkable journey to Cannes this May 23rd, Lucas reflected about past excursions to the festival for his cherished franchises. "I’m very happy to be here, even though I’m also struck by a feeling of nostalgia, as I’ve often come to Cannes, particularly for Indiana Jones and Star Wars,”said Lucas. "I obviously have a lot of fans, but I’ve never made award-winning films. That’s why receiving this Palme d’Or is a great honor.”

Reflecting on his nearly six decades immersed in the realm of cinema, Lucas remarked, "it’s definitely a different world.”

Upon learning of his forthcoming honorary accolade—shared with Meryl Streep, bestowed during Cannes' inaugural gala on May 14th—Lucas expressed last month, "The Festival de Cannes has always held a special place in my heart."