Peter Jackson Reflects on Shocking Cannes Honorary Palme d’Or: ‘I Don’t Make Palme d’Or-Type Films’

Peter Jackson Honored at Cannes Without a Single Official Selection

On Tuesday, director Peter Jackson became one of the first filmmakers to receive the Cannes Film Festival’s Honorary Palme d’Or despite never having a film in the festival’s official selection. The honor was presented during the festival’s 2025 edition, coinciding with the 25th anniversary of the release of his first The Lord of the Rings film.

Jackson’s Shock and Humor Over the Unexpected Honor

During a public conversation at the Debussy Theatre on Wednesday, Jackson admitted he was deeply surprised by the award. “The two times that I came before [to Cannes] were monumental times,” he said, referencing the 2001 screening of The Lord of the Rings promotional footage and his 1988 appearance at the Cannes marketplace with his debut film, Bad Taste.

“I just don’t make Palme d’Or-type films,” Jackson said. “I really like the idea of having a Palme d’Or without having to make a film.”

He called the experience “profound,” comparing it to winning an award for being a bellydancer.

The Honorary Palme d’Or recognizes a filmmaker’s body of work, unlike the competitive Palme d’Or, which is awarded to the best film in the Main Competition. Recent recipients include Marco Bellocchio, George Lucas, Studio Ghibli, Jodie Foster, Forest Whitaker, and Tom Cruise. Barbra Streisand will receive this year’s second Honorary Palme at the closing ceremony on May 23.

Jackson’s Playful Take on Cannes’ Formality

Jackson joked about subverting the festival’s strict dress code, revealing he considered wearing “a tuxedo and shorts.” Though he lacked the courage to follow through, the remark highlighted his lighthearted approach to the prestigious honor.

Career Highlights and Behind-the-Scenes Anecdotes

At the “Rendezvous with Peter Jackson” event, clips from his films were screened, including Heavenly Creatures, which featured a young Kate Winslet. Jackson shared a humorous anecdote about giving Winslet her first on-screen kiss, joking that he must have set a high bar for her future roles.

Reflecting on his career, Jackson emphasized the pivotal role Cannes played in the success of The Lord of the Rings. The 2001 screening of previously unseen footage helped shift public perception of the franchise, which was initially considered a risky venture by both Jackson and New Line Cinema.

Jackson’s Thoughts on a Potential The Hunt for Gollum Film

Jackson also discussed the upcoming The Hunt for Gollum, a fan-made film set in The Lord of the Rings universe. He suggested that actor Andy Serkis—known for his portrayal of Gollum—would be the ideal director for the project.

“Andy knows this guy [Gollum] better than anybody,” Jackson said. “…The most exciting version of this movie is if Andy Serkis makes it.”

Early Career and the Origins of a Legend

Jackson recounted his early days in filmmaking, including his first feature, Bad Taste, which he brought to the Cannes marketplace in 1988. His journey from indie filmmaker to director of one of cinema’s most ambitious trilogies underscored his unique path to recognition at Cannes.