The 2024 Cannes Film Festival opened on Tuesday evening with an honorary Palme d’Or awarded to US actor Meryl Streep, who noted that the first time she had attended 35 years ago she was the mother of three children. “I was about to turn 40, and I thought my career was over – not an unrealistic expectation for actresses at that time,” Streep, now 74, said to applause. “The only reason I am here tonight is because of the very gifted artists with whom I have worked … To you all, I owe so much. I’m so grateful you haven’t gotten sick of my face,” she said. The award was presented by French star Ju…