Spike Lee Surprises Denzel Washington with Special Tribute at ‘Highest 2 Lowest’ Cannes Premiere

Spike Lee and Denzel Washington's partnership spans an impressive 35 years, beginning with “Mo’ Better Blues” and embracing iconic works like “Malcolm X.” Yet, until Monday night, they had never graced the Cannes Film Festival red carpet side by side. Their latest collaboration, “Highest 2 Lowest,” premiered, marking Washington's inaugural appearance at Cannes since his role in 1993’s “Much Ado About Nothing.” Preceding the screening, festival general delegate Thierry Fremaux announced the actor would receive an honorary Palme d’Or. A tribute reel highlighted Washington’s most memorable performances, notably as corrupt cop Alonzo in “Training Day.” After receiving the award, Washington expressed heartfelt gratitude, calling Lee his “brother from another mother.” “Highest 2 Lowest,” a fresh interpretation of Akira Kurosawa’s classic, hits U.S. theaters on August 22.