Denzel Washington had no reason to suspect that Monday night’s Cannes Film Festival premiere of Spike Lee’s “Highest 2 Lowest” would turn into an all-time moment for him.

Once in the theater, the actor — who reunited with Spike for the first time in 20 years — was celebrated for his talents and was presented with an honorary Palme d’Or by the legendary director.

Denzel reportedly said the award made him "a little emotional."