Ermanno Olmi talks to Screen about winning in 1978 with The Tree Of Wooden Clogs, which he said came to him 'half way through his career - neither too soon nor too late'. Olmi's just-released One Hundred Nails - which he has said will be his final film - plays at this year's Cannes in the tributes section.

What did it feel like to win the Palme d'Or'
It's a feeling very similar to happiness to which you add a deeper faith in oneself, and a desire to return to work straight away. But there is one question hovering over you: 'Now what are you going to do''

How did you celebrate'
By staying at home as much as possible. I never liked the over-exposure of myself. Also I don't like to talk about my work once it is over and done.

How did it affect your career' Did it make it easier to attract funding for subsequent projects'
To win a prize at Cannes means gaining much more trust from producers. It's a currency you can spend in terms of freedom for future projects.

Where do you keep your Palme d'Or'
All the awards from my now long career keep each other company in a large cupboard.

Which director would you give an all-time Palme d'Or to'
There would be two directors - the Lumiere brothers.

What have been the most important shifts in the industry during your career'
All the changes to cinema have underlined the great vitality of the medium.

How do you see the role of festivals changing'
All festivals, as the word itself says, are moments in which the extraordinary opportunity to know cinema in all its forms is celebrated.

What are your hopes and fears for the future'
My hope is for people who favour this extraordinary occasion to dream together. Cinema is also about [the ability to] believe in human cohabitation as the most extraordinary faith in the future.