The entire very political speech of Robert de Niro in Cannes
“In my country, we are fighting today as devils for democracy that we used to take for acquired …”
Despite the rhinestones and glitter, the Croisette was never one to turn a blind eye to the rest of the world.
And last night, The opening of the 78th edition of the Cannes Film Festival started on a resolutely political note. With the speech of the master of ceremonies, Laurent Lafittefirst, who insisted on the commitment of actors and actresses around the world. Then Juliette BinochePresident of the jury, followed suit, before Robert de Niro Do not go on stage to receive his Palme d’Or of Honorhands of Leonardo DiCAPRI.
“We are fighting a lot to defend democracy.”
Robert de Niro’s powerful speech when receiving his golden palm of honor.#Cannes2025 pic.twitter.com/z58propc5z
– France.tv cinema (@francetvcinema) May 13, 2025
In front of a acquired room, the star of Driver taxi strongly criticized the American president Donald Trumpqualifying him as “Philistine President of America”, denouncing the budget cuts in the fields of arts, human sciences and education, as well as the proposal to impose a 100 % tax on films shot outside the USA, considering that these measures threaten creativity and international culture.
Under applause, Robert de Niro did not chew his words and called on the public to resist. Discover the entirety of his speech below:
“In my country, we are fighting today as devils for democracy that we used to acquire. This affects us all here, because art is the crucible that brings people together, as this evening. Art seeks truth. Art embraces diversity. This is why art is a threat.”
“This is why we are a threat to autocrats and fascists. The Philistine President of America was named at the head of one of our main cultural institutions (Kennedy Center). He reduced funding and support for arts, human sciences and education.”
“We cannot put a price on creativity, but apparently we can put a customs price. Of course, it is unacceptable. All these attacks are unacceptable. And it is not only an American problem, it is a global problem. As for a film, we cannot simply sit and watch. We must act, and we must act now.”
“Without violence, but with great passion and determination.”
