France’s prestigious César Academy has taken steps to reinforce its protocols when it comes to individuals under judicial investigation for violent crimes. This decision was prompted by the revelation that actor Sofiane Bennacer, who was set to be celebrated as one of the 2023 César revelations, was being investigated for allegations of rape and sexual assault.
In a statement released on the eve of its nominations announcement in Paris, the Academy announced that it would be extending and expanding these measures to all its initiatives until 2024. These changes were made after a working group, which consulted with various individuals in the first half of 2023, presented its findings to the Academy’s Chamber of Representatives. The consensus was that individuals who are indicted or legally convicted of violent acts, particularly those of a sexist or sexual nature, should not be celebrated in any way.
The new measures will remain in place for the duration of the criminal proceedings and will apply to all César initiatives, including César & Techniques, the Revelations, César & Production, the High School Students César, and the Nuits en Or. However, it is important to note that these measures do not disregard the presumption of innocence.
The Academy has made it clear that individuals who are indicted or convicted of violent crimes will not be invited to any events organized by the Association. This decision reflects the Academy’s commitment to ensuring that those facing criminal charges for acts of violence, particularly those of a sexist or sexual nature, are not celebrated or given a platform.
César Awards Voting
The Academy also addressed how it would handle the voting process if a person who is the subject of legal indictment receives enough votes to win a César award. While the statement does not provide specific details about the consequences, it emphasizes that the Academy will take appropriate action.
The César Academy’s decision to strengthen its protocols when dealing with individuals under judicial investigation for violent crimes has been met with approval and support from numerous stakeholders. By introducing these measures, the Academy is taking a proactive stance against violence and ensuring that individuals facing serious criminal charges are not celebrated within the industry. The 49th César awards ceremony will take place in Paris on February 23, showcasing a more responsible and considerate approach to recognizing talent in the film industry.