Live Updates: 2026 Cesar Awards Announced in France
The 2026 César Awards celebrated the best of French cinema at the Olympia Theater in Paris. This prestigious ceremony showcased a range of films, with Richard Linklater’s “Nouvelle Vague” leading the nominations with ten in total. The event took place on a memorable evening filled with emotional tributes and sharp critiques surrounding the challenges facing the French film industry.
Major Winners of the 2026 César Awards
- Best Film: “Nouvelle Vague”
- Best Director: Richard Linklater for “Nouvelle Vague”
- Best Actor: Claes Bang in “The Great Arch”
- Best Actress: Isabelle Huppert for “The Richest Woman in the World”
- Best International Feature: Paul Thomas Anderson’s “Once Battle After Another”
- Honorable César Award: Jim Carrey
Highlights from the Ceremony
Jim Carrey received the honorary César and delivered a heartfelt speech in French. He shared his family roots in France and paid tribute to the culture that shaped him. Notably, he revealed that his ancestry traced back to Saint Malo, where his ancestor, Marc-François Carré, was born.
The ceremony host, Benjamin Lavernhe, delivered an entertaining performance that included a tribute to Carrey’s character in “The Mask.” Lavernhe’s performance set a lively tone for the evening, making it one of the most engaging openings of the César ceremony in recent memory.
Criticism and Reflection
Camille Cottin, famous for her role in “Call My Agent!”, criticized the National Film Board of France. She humorously addressed the demand for filmmakers to produce profitable films, suggesting that those who fail to attract audiences should return to film school.
During the event, concerns regarding artistic freedom and the impact of artificial intelligence on the film industry were also raised. Emmanuel Curtil, the French voice of Jim Carrey, emphasized the importance of preserving human connection in film dubbing.
Tribute to Iconic Figures
This year’s César Awards also honored the late Brigitte Bardot, including memorable scenes from her landmark films. This tribute underscored her significant impact on French cinema and culture.
International Perspectives
Iranian actress Golshifteh Farahani gave a poignant speech highlighting the struggles faced in her homeland. She condemned the violent repression of protests in Iran, stressing the importance of culture and art as vital expressions of resistance.
Closing Remarks
The 2026 César Awards not only celebrated cinematic achievements but also addressed pressing issues in the film industry. As French cinema navigates its challenges, events like this remind us of the passion and resilience of its artists.
