ARTFEED — Contemporary Art Intelligence

Eye Haïdara Opens Cannes with Political Speech; Peter Jackson Receives Honorary Palme

festival-fair · 2026-05-13

At the opening ceremony of the Festival de Cannes on Tuesday, actress Eye Haïdara, serving as master of ceremonies, delivered a politically charged speech saluting those who attempt "to resist here and elsewhere." The event also featured New Zealand filmmaker Peter Jackson, director of the "Lord of the Rings" trilogy, who was awarded an honorary Palme d'Or for his lifetime achievement.

Key facts

  • Eye Haïdara was the master of ceremonies at the Festival de Cannes opening.
  • Haïdara's speech included a salute to those who resist 'here and elsewhere.'
  • Peter Jackson received an honorary Palme d'Or for his career.
  • Jackson is known for directing the 'Lord of the Rings' trilogy.
  • The ceremony took place on Tuesday.
  • The event was the opening of the Festival de Cannes.

Entities

Artists

  • Eye Haïdara
  • Peter Jackson

Institutions

  • Festival de Cannes

Locations

  • Cannes
  • France

Sources