Cannes 2024 – George Lucas, a golden palm of honor for a cinema legend
The world of cinema is preparing to pay tribute to one of its most emblematic figures during the 77th Cannes Film Festival. George Lucas, director, renowned screenwriter and producer, will be awarded the Palme d’Or of Honor during the closing ceremony, scheduled for Saturday, May 25, 2024. This exceptional event, broadcast live on France 2, marks an additional recognition for a man whose impact on the film industry is indisputable.
When we talk about the name of George Lucas, a whole part of the history of cinema is revealed. Known for its major contributions through iconic works such as the Star Wars and Indiana Jones sagas, Georges Lucas is undeniably one of the pillars of the 7th art. His boundless creativity and his innovative vision have revolutionized the cinematographic landscape, captivating millions of spectators around the world.
In a moving declaration, George Lucas shares his particular attachment to the Cannes Festival: “The Cannes Film Festival has always occupied a special place in my heart,” he confides. “I was surprised and delighted when my first film, Thx-1138, was selected to be screened on the Croisette in 1971. Since then, I have returned to the festival many times as a screenwriter, director and producer. I am really honored by this special recognition which means a lot for me. »»
The beginnings of George Lucas in the film industry date back to his collaboration with Francis Ford Coppola for the production of THX 1138 (1971). This first feature film, a real plunge into the universe of science fiction, laid the foundations for a singular and visionary style. Subsequently, Georges Lucas continued on his momentum with American Graffiti (1973), an acclaimed work that revealed to the world the talent of young actors such as Harrison Ford.
However, it was with Star Wars that George Lucas reached unrivaled peaks. This intergalactic epic, of which he is both the creator and the director, upset the codes of cinema and quickly became a planetary phenomenon. Through nine episodes, including four that he himself directed, Lucas built a universe of incredible wealth, mixing ancient myths and advanced technologies.
Beyond his cinematographic achievements, George Lucas also marked the industry thanks to his entrepreneurial vision. The Lucasfilm Foundation and the creation of companies such as Industrial Light & Magic have contributed to revolutionizing special effects and post-production. In addition, its involvement in projects such as Pixar Animation Studios has made it possible to push the limits of creativity even further.
The presentation of the Palme d’Or of Honor to George Lucas during the closing ceremony of the Cannes Film Festival thus represents a historic moment for the world of cinema. This reward comes to greet an exceptional career, marked by audacity, innovation and an undeniable artistic sense. By honoring George Lucas, the festival pays tribute to one of the most influential and inspiring figures in the film industry.
In addition, and there I speak to Tunisian readers, it is necessary to underline the importance of the link between George Lucas and Tunisia. Indeed, Star Wars, Episode I: The ghost threat (1999) was partly shot in Tozeur and Ksar Hadada, in the South Tunisian, where the emblematic sets still remain today. Each year, these places attract hundreds of visitors, both Tunisians and foreigners, eager to immerse themselves in the authentic sets where this legendary story started. These sets are not only testimonies of filming, but also popular tourist attractions, offering visitors the opportunity to relive the epic moments of the Star Wars saga.
It should be noted that the action takes place on the Tatooine planet, orbiting around the binary stars Tatoo I and II. Tatooine is one of the three planets of the system that bears his name. Three moons revolve around the planet: Ghomrasen, Guermessa and Chenini. This reference to Tunisian names is not accidental, because Tataouine, Ghomrasen, Guermessa and Chenini are actually names of cities in the South Tunisian. This interconnection between the fiction of Star Wars and the reality of Tunisia adds a fascinating dimension to the history of the saga, thus reinforcing the links between the cinematic universe and the real world.
The closing ceremony of the 77th Cannes Festival will be broadcast on Saturday May 25 live on France Télévisions and Brut. Camille Cottin will be the mistress of ceremonies.
The 77th Cannes Film Festival will take place from Tuesday 14 to Saturday 25 May 2024.
Neïla Driss after press release
