Spike Lee and Pedro Almodóvar are first honourees announced for 2023 TIFF Tribute Awards

Spike Lee and Pedro Almodóvar are the first honourees announced for this year’s TIFF Tribute Awards.

‘Do the Right Thing’ director Spike, 66, will receive the TIFF Ebert Director Award, which recognises filmmakers who have “exemplified greatness in their careers”.

‘Live Flesh’ filmmaker Pedro, 73 – who won the best original screenplay for his 2022 movie ‘Talk to Her’ – will receive the Jeff Skoll Award in Impact Media presented by Participant, which recognises “leadership in creating a union between social impact and cinema”.

Cameron Bailey, CEO of TIFF, said about Spike, who won the adapted screenplay Oscar for his ‘BlacKkKlansman’ film: “A foremost storyteller of our era… Spike has inspired audiences and made a lasting impact on the art of filmmaking.”

He added about Pedro – one of the most renowned international auteurs of his generation: “It’s a true thrill to acknowledge Pedro Almodóvar as the distinguished recipient of the Jeff Skoll Impact Media Award for 2023.

“His artistic vision, bold storytelling and unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of cinema have had a profound impact on cinema.

“He challenges societal norms, champions diversity and illuminates the human experience with sensitivity and grace.

“We applaud his contributions to cinema and celebrate his ability to inspire and provoke audiences worldwide.”

Past honourees at the TIFF Tribute Awards include Oscar winners Jessica Chastain, Roger Deakins, Brendan Fraser, Anthony Hopkins, Joaquin Phoenix, Taika Waititi, Michelle Yeoh and Chloé Zhao.

The awards night is TIFF’s largest annual fundraiser and collected $1.3 million in 2022.

Its 2023 Tribute Awards will take place on Sunday, 10 September, and will feature more than 60 films representing 70 countries, which will be shown from 7 to 17 of next month.