Washington, March 6 -- In a major honour for one of cinema's most influential fantasy storytellers, acclaimed filmmaker Peter Jackson will receive the prestigious Honorary Palme d'Or at the 79th edition of the Cannes Film Festival, scheduled to run from May 12 to 23.

The Oscar-winning New Zealand director, best known for bringing 'The Lord of the Rings' to the big screen, will join an illustrious list of past honourees including Agnes Varda, Marco Bellocchio, Jodie Foster, Meryl Streep and last year's recipient Robert De Niro, as per Deadline.

Reacting to the recognition, Jackson described the honour as one of the most meaningful moments of his career.

"To be honoured with an Honorary Palme d'Or at Cannes is one of the greatest privile...