Netflix has been the topic of some conversation at the Cannes film festival, with some filmmakers and critics protesting the presence of the streaming service. However, one actor that came to their defense was Will Smith, who is a juror at the festival this year.

Cannes jury president, director Pedro Almodovar, is one of those who were less than thrilled with Netflix, saying, "I personally do not conceive, not only the Palme d'Or, any other prize being given to a film and not being able to see this film on a big screen. All this doesn't mean I'm not open to or don't celebrate the new technologies. I do." 

He went on to say, "I'll be fighting for one thing that I'm afraid the new generation is not aware of. It's the capacity of the hypnosis of the large screen for the viewer. The size [of the screen] should not be smaller than the chair on which you're sitting. It should not be part of your everyday setting. You must feel small and humble in front of the image that's here."

Smith added his two cents, talking about his kids' use of Netflix, saying, "In my house, Netflix has been nothing but an absolute benefit. They get to see films they absolutely wouldn't have seen. Netflix brings a great connectivity. There are movies that are not on a screen within 8,000 miles of them. They get to find those artists."

Netflix will be releasing a Will Smith film this year, titled "Bright".

Photo credit: Oxygen