The 50ᵉ César ceremony honored Jacques Audiard's committed musical Emilia Pérez with seven trophies. But beyond this expected consecration, the evening was marked by unexpected victories, a vibrant tribute to Julia Roberts and a refreshing diversity in the prize list.

A ceremony of pomp and thrills, full of emotion and the unexpected

In the hushed setting of the Olympia, bathed in golden light and punctuated by the rustle of haute couture fabrics, the 50ᵉ César ceremony announced itself as an ode to French cinema in all its splendor. Under the presidency of Catherine Deneuve, a timeless figure of the seventh art, the event lived up to its promise between consecration, emotion and twists and turns. Although the shadow ofEmilia Pérez hung over this year's event, her triumph was tempered by other notable victories and unexpected moments of intensity.

Right from the opening, the atmosphere was charged with solemnity and enthusiasm. Predictions were rife, yet the awards ceremony did not always go according to plan. There were standing ovations, suspended silences and moments of pure magic, proving once again that the Césars know how to combine prestige and the thrill of live action.

The undisputed triumph ofEmilia Pérez

Jacques Audiard is no stranger to the César awards, but this year he struck hard. Emilia Pérez, a musical as baroque as it is political, took home seven trophies, including the most coveted: Best Film, Best Direction and Best Adaptation. By marrying the flamboyance of the musical with an engaging reflection on identity and redemption, Audiard won over both critics and audiences.

This fresco about a Mexican drug trafficker's quest for transformation also shone in the technical categories, winning awards for photography, soundtrack and visual effects. A resounding victory, a reminder that French auteur cinema also knows how to embrace grand spectacle.

But beyond this expected triumph, the evening gave way to other, sometimes more surprising triumphs, which gave the Césars a touch of unpredictability.

Unexpected victories and rising stars

In the acting categories, it was Hafsia Herzi who sprang a surprise by winning the César for Best Actress for Borgo. Her role as a prison guard, torn between her duty and her humanity, moved the assembly and proved, once again, the finesse of her acting. Faced with renowned rivals, this victory was far from a foregone conclusion, but it confirms the rise of an actress who is establishing herself as one of the most singular voices in French cinema.

In the men's category, Karim Leklou won the Best Actor award for Le Roman de Jim. Accustomed to playing supporting roles, he finds here a leading role worthy of his talent, playing with rare intensity a father trying to preserve the bond with his son in a tense judicial context.

The evening was also marked by the emergence of new figures. Maïwène Barthelemy, Best Actress of the Year for Vingt Dieux, embodies the young generation that is breathing fresh air into the French film landscape. Meanwhile, Abou Sangaré, Best Male Revelation for L'Histoire de Souleymane, moved the audience with a humble, heartfelt speech that reflected his poignant performance.

Forgotten greats and memorable tributes

But a César ceremony wouldn't be complete without its share of disappointments. Despite 14 nominations, Le Comte de Monte-Cristo won only technical awards, leaving a bitter taste in the mouths of fans of classic spectacle. L'Amour ouf, with its 13 nominations, settled for a single statuette, a cruel fate for a film that had won over critics and spectators alike.

One of the most moving moments of the evening was the tribute paid to Julia Roberts. The American actress, honored for her entire career, appeared radiant, saluting with gratitude the French cinema she has always admired. Her speech, punctuated with anecdotes and a touch of humor, won over the room, reminding us that the seventh art transcends borders.

Another tribute was paid to Costa-Gavras, a director of genius whose political commitment and incisive directing continue to inspire today's generations.

An edition that lived up to expectations

This 50ᵉ edition of the Césars was a reflection of French cinema: eclectic, daring and sometimes unpredictable. From the triumph ofEmilia Pérez, to the consecration of up-and-coming actors, to heartfelt tributes to iconic cinema figures, the ceremony captivated, moved and celebrated an industry in perpetual evolution.

Amid the hustle and bustle of speeches, laughter and tears, one thing is certain: that night, French cinema proved that it was more alive than ever.