Pakistan, May 21 -- Hollywood juggernaut, Denzel Washington received a surprise honour at the Cannes Film Festival when he was awarded the prestigious Honorary Palme d'Or, a rare lifetime achievement award.

This unexpected tribute came just before the out-of-competition screening of his latest film, Highest 2 Lowest, directed by long-time collaborator Spike Lee.

Denzel Washington was visibly emotional as he accepted the honour on stage.

Cannes festival director Thierry Fremaux introduced the moment, and Spike Lee presented the award to Washington, calling him his "brother". The audience gave Washington a long standing ovation in recognition of his remarkable career. "This is a total surprise for me," said Denzel Washington. "It's a gre...