Harrison Ford Receives Honorary Palme d'Or at Cannes for Indiana Jones Franchise

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Harrison Ford, accompanied by the iconic John Williams-composed score of the "Indiana Jones" movies, made a grand entrance at the Grand Theatre Lumière in Cannes to accept his honorary Palme d'Or on Thursday. The theater erupted with enthusiastic applause as Ford received the prestigious statuette.

In a packed theater, the Hollywood legend began his speech by expressing his gratitude. "I'm very touched," Ford said. Reflecting on his life, he shared a heartfelt sentiment, comparing the experience to seeing his life flash before his eyes. He acknowledged that a significant part of his life has been devoted to the "Indiana Jones" franchise.

During his emotional address, Ford expressed appreciation for his "lovely" wife, actress Calista Flockhart, who was present in the audience. He credited Flockhart for supporting his passions and dreams throughout their relationship, emphasizing his gratitude.

Addressing the audience, Ford acknowledged their profound impact on his life. "You've given my life purpose and meaning, and I'm grateful for that," he stated. He went on to thank his fellow "Dial of Destiny" castmates, including Phoebe Waller-Bridge and Mads Mikkelsen, as well as director James Mangold.

While accepting the honor, Ford expressed his deep sense of gratitude and humility. However, he couldn't contain his excitement about his latest film. Pointing to the movie screen adorned with elegant red velvet curtains, he exclaimed, "I've got a movie you've got to see. It's right behind me."

The honorary Palme d'Or, akin to a lifetime achievement award, was bestowed upon Ford at the Cannes Film Festival just before the highly anticipated premiere of "Dial of Destiny." This film marks the 80-year-old actor's fifth and final installment in the beloved "Indiana Jones" series, in which he has portrayed the titular character since the franchise's debut with "Raiders of the Lost Ark" in 1981. After a thirteen-year hiatus, "Dial of Destiny" brings the iconic character back to the big screen following the release of "Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull" in 2008.

Although shown out of competition at the prestigious festival, "Dial of Destiny" received mostly positive feedback immediately after its screening. Audiences eagerly await its theatrical release, scheduled for June 30 in the United States.