New Delhi, May 13 -- The 79th Cannes Film Festival opened on Tuesday night with a ceremony that blended cinema celebration, politics and major red carpet appearances as filmmakers and actors arrived on the French Riviera for the start of the 2026 edition.

The opening ceremony at the Palais des Festivals was led by a tribute to New Zealand filmmaker Peter Jackson, who received an honorary Palme d'Or for his contribution to cinema and filmmaking technology.

Jackson, best known for directing The Lord of the Rings trilogy, was introduced by actor Elijah Wood before accepting the award.

A live performance of The Beatles' 'Get Back' followed the tribute, referencing Jackson's acclaimed documentary series The Beatles: Get Back.

Speaking duri...