In a grand display of admiration and respect, renowned actress Meryl Streep was honored with the prestigious Palme d'Or at the 77th Cannes Film Festival. The opening night ceremony, which traditionally focuses on introducing the jury and its president, auteur Greta Gerwig, took an unexpected turn as the larger-than-life presence of Streep stole the spotlight. The actress, resplendent in white, gratefully accepted the accolade from Juliette Binoche, dressed in striking red, who delivered a heartfelt tribute to Streep's groundbreaking portrayal of women on screen.

Overwhelmed by the emotion of the moment, Binoche tearfully expressed, "You changed how women are portrayed." Streep, clearly moved by the heartfelt words, experienced a mixture of delight and embarrassment as the black-tie audience at the Palais des Festivals gave her a lengthy, sustained ovation. Playfully pretending to leave the stage, Streep was touched by the overwhelming warmth emanating from the crowd. Reflecting on the experience, she remarked, "I felt just a wave of feeling coming from the audience. And it's so much bigger than I thought."

During a subsequent interview at the packed Salle Debussy, Streep engaged in a lively discussion about the film "The Second Act" and the remarkable energy generated by Cannes' after-party. Despite feeling a little worn-out, she passionately shared her admiration for the film and the conversations it had sparked. Streep, known for her modesty and down-to-earth personality, casually portrayed herself as a small-town girl from New Jersey, now a suburban mother with grown children and grandchildren, who doesn't often venture out. However, she fondly reminisced about the chaos of her earlier Cannes appearances, recalling the need for 12 bodyguards during the early days of the iconic film festival.

As the actress, who holds the record for the most acting Oscar nominations, discussed her extensive career, Streep revealed that she had rewritten her roles in two notable films. She shared how she had shaped her characters in "The Deer Hunter" and "Kramer vs. Kramer," providing fresh perspectives and adding depth to their narratives. While she momentarily misplaced her Supporting Actress Oscar in a restroom during one of the ceremonies, Streep humorously recounted how it was eventually found. Nonetheless, her exceptional acting skills have not gone unnoticed, leading to her three Oscar wins.

Streep also delved into the evolution of the film industry and gender equality. Expressing her satisfaction with the increasing presence of powerful female stars in Hollywood, she acknowledged that discussions around income inequality and the long-term impact of the Time's Up movement continue to persist. Streep believes progress is being made but highlights the challenges faced in the past. She emphasized how it was difficult for male executives to identify with female protagonists in lead roles, leading to a lack of representation and a struggle for female-driven films to obtain financing.

Throughout the interview, Streep demonstrated her passion for storytelling and her ability to immerse herself in diverse characters. Her dedication to her craft and her meticulous attention to accents showcased her commitment to portraying different women and highlighting their shared humanity. Streep's remarkable talent and dedication have consistently captivated audiences, and her varied filmography serves as a testament to her unwavering commitment to her craft.

As Streep continues to select films based on the stories that capture her heart, her presence on screen will undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on the film industry.