De Niro slams Trump at Cannes, calls him art's enemy

While receiving an honorary Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival, Robert De Niro did not mince words in his criticism of Donald Trump. The actor described the former U.S. president as an enemy of the arts and a philistine. De Niro emphasized that democracy in the United States is at risk, affecting the entire world, because art is democratic and unites people.

De Niro pointed out Trump's proposal for a 100-percent tariff on films produced outside the United States. The actor stressed that such actions are unacceptable and represent a global problem. He called for action towards achieving freedom by organizing, protesting, and voting in elections.

"Democratic" is the word. In my country, we are fighting like hell for the democracy we once took for granted. That affects all of us here, because art is the crucible that brings people together, like tonight. Art looks for truth. Art embraces diversity. That’s why art is a threat. That’s why we are a threat to autocrats and fascists," commented the actor.

He continued, still referring to Trump's policies: "And this isn’t just an American problem, it’s a global one. Like a film, we can’t just all sit back and watch. We have to act, and we have to act now."

"It’s time for everyone who cares about liberty to organise, to protest, and when there are elections, vote. Vote. Tonight, and for the next 11 days, we show our strength and commitment by celebrating art in this glorious festival. Liberté, Égalité, Fraternité," he concluded.

De Niro, known for numerous roles in Martin Scorsese's films such as Taxi Driver and Goodfellas, has a long history with the Cannes Festival. The actor emphasized that the festival connects creators and art fans, which is especially important these days. It's no wonder De Niro used his moment to refer to Trump.