George Lucas Defended His Movie at the 77th Cannes Film Festival

George Lucas, the mastermind behind Star Wars, was honored with the prestigious Honorary Palme d'Or at the 77th Cannes Film Festival, held from 14 May to 25 May. The award, presented by his long-time friend Francis Ford Coppola, is a testament to Lucas' immense contribution to the film industry. 

Cannes concluded the last day of the event with Lucas’s speech, during which he received long applause with a five-minute standing ovation. Coppola delivered a touching speech, saying that the world of cinema is really proud of him. 

On the other hand, George Lucas reflects on his nearly six decades in the film industry by saying, “It’s definitely a different world.” "I can't thank all of you enough because I'm just a kid grew up in a vineyard in Modesto, Calif., who makes movies in San Francisco with Francis.”

Addressing the criticism of the films about featuring all white men, particularly in the first six films. 

He defends his film with various statements to prove that the cast doesn’t include only ‘all white men’ in his movies. He said that in the first movie, there were a few dark Tunisians, whereas in the second one, it was Billy Williams.  

He points out the variety of the characters, giving examples of Lando Calrissian (Billy Dee Williams) and Mace Windu (Samuel L. Jackson) as the top Jedi, who played major figures in the films. 

He sums up the secret to his success, saying. “I’m a stubborn guy, and I didn’t want people to tell me how to make my movies.” 

Note: Four of George Lucas's movies have been to Cannes. One of these is none other than the American epic space opera film Star Wars Episode III - Revenge of the Sith (2005).