Thierry Frémaux, director of the Lumière Festival, warned attendees that Sean Penn, this year's guest of honor, is not fond of discussing himself. Despite his shyness, Penn engaged during a masterclass, sharing insights on his acting process and experiences with directors like Clint Eastwood and Terrence Malick. The event lacked a Q&A session, disappointing the audience. Penn's reflections on his roles, including playing Harvey Milk and a colonel in 'One Battle After Another', highlighted his dedication to character immersion. The festival runs until October 19, 2025.