Pakistan, May 17 -- Hollywood star John Travolta was given a surprise lifetime achievement award at the Cannes Film Festival Friday as he premiered the first movie he has ever directed.

The man who became an icon overnight with "Saturday Night Fever" was visibly moved as he accepted the honorary Palme d'Or before the screening of "Propeller One-Way Night Coach", which is based on a children's book he wrote.

"I just can't believe it. This is beyond the Oscar, really," he said as he accepted the honorary Palme d'Or.

"My favourite movies in the history of my life have always been the winners of the Palme d'Or."

Travolta - who has never won an Oscar - revived his flagging career with his iconic turn as hitman Vincent Vega in Quentin Taran...