De Niro Critiques Trump at Cannes
Actor Robert De Niro returned to his outspoken criticism of Donald Trump during his acceptance speech at the Cannes Film Festival. This marked his notable re-emergence in the public discourse surrounding the U.S. president.
At the Cannes Film Festival’s opening ceremony, De Niro voiced concerns about the global implications of Trump’s presidency. “In my country, we fight like hell for a democracy we once took for granted,” he remarked. He argued that this situation affects everyone, emphasizing that art serves as a melting pot that unites people. “Art is searching for truth and embracing diversity, which makes it a threat,” he added as the audience applauded enthusiastically from the Grand Lumière theater.
He elaborated, expressing that the current American administration poses a threat not only to the nation but also to art and culture. “We are a threat to dictators and fascists,” he asserted. He criticized Trump for appointing individuals who undermine support for the arts and education.
Diving into political economics, De Niro also addressed Trump’s recent announcement about imposing a 100% tariff on films produced outside of the United States. “You can’t put a price on creativity,” he noted, labeling such tariffs as unacceptable. “These attacks aren’t just an American issue; they’re a global issue,” he stressed, calling for collective awareness and action.
In closing, De Niro urged people to rally passionately and determinedly, yet peacefully, emphasizing a need for those who value freedom to mobilize. “It’s time for everyone who cares to stand up,” he said.
Leonardo DiCaprio presented the award to De Niro, who is now 81 years old, before the screening of the French comedy “Particle un Jour.” De Niro’s connection to the festival runs deep; he was a jury chairman in 2011 and has had several significant films debut at the festival.
This year’s Cannes has already sparked discussions on pressing real-world issues, like the conviction of Gérard Depardieu, which overshadowed the event’s opening day due to serious allegations.
In tandem with the political actions and controversies, the festival witnessed a small protest by freelance workers advocating for better unemployment insurance protection amidst ongoing negotiations.
The Cannes Film Festival is set to continue until May 24th.
