Japan

Entertainment Desk: Japan Apart from individuals, this is the first time that an organization has been given the Golden Palm,

the highest award of the Cannes Film Festival. The award goes to Japan’s Studio Ghibli for more than four decades of creating extraordinary animated films that have captivated audiences of all ages.

Goro Miyazaki, son of Hayao Miyazaki, accepted the honorary Palme d’Or on behalf of Studio Ghibli, Ghibli Museum and Ghibli Park on Monday at 3:30 p.m. at the Grand Théâtre Lumiere in the Palais de Festival building.

It was handed over to him by Spanish director Juan Antonio Bayona, who was on the judging panel of the main competition this year. On stage were Cannes festival director Thierry Fremaux and president Iris Knoblock.

Thierry Fremaux said, ‘Today everyone is here because we are immersed in Japanese animation. For the first time, Iris Knoblock and I decided to give the honorary Palme d’Or to a studio instead of a creative person.

What a great studio! Giving it to Studio Ghibli, represented by Goro Miyazaki!’

Before the trophy presentation, the big screen showed clips of some animated films from Studio Ghibli.

After that, 83-year-old Hayao Miyazaki thanked the Cannes festival authorities through a video. Due to old age he could not physically come to Kan.

Goro Miyazaki himself directed the animated film. Besides, he served as the head of creative development of Studio Ghibli.

“When we won the Oscar for ‘The Boy and the Heron’, the Ghibli representatives came home with a statue,” said the director after accepting the honorary Palme d’Or. But it wasn’t in a box. That’s why they wrapped it in a hotel towel. So I am very happy to see this golden palm beautifully boxed!”

Then Goro Miyazaki added, ‘Ghibli was founded by Hayao Miyazaki, Isao Takahata and Tokuma Shoten 40 years ago.

Their contribution may be the most in this studio, but I want to give this award to every member who works hard. It is also an honor for those who liked our films. I want to thank all the Ghibli fans.’

Muskan Baby took the packed stage by storm with a great dance

The awards and speeches were followed by a screening of four short animated films directed by Hayao Miyazaki at the Grand Théâtre Lumière. These are ‘May and the Kittenbus’, ‘Looking for a Home’, ‘Mr Doe and the Egg Princess’ and ‘Boro the Caterpillar’.