Live Update: Paul Thomas Anderson’s ‘One Battle After Another’ Wins Best International Film at Césars 2026
The prestigious Césars award ceremony took place at L’Olympia in Paris, celebrating the best of French cinema. The event marked the 51st edition of these esteemed awards, showcasing a variety of films and talents.
Paul Thomas Anderson’s Triumph
In a significant win, Paul Thomas Anderson’s film One Battle After Another secured the title of Best International Film. It outperformed strong competitors such as The Secret Agent, Black Dog, Sirāt, and Sentimental Value. This accomplishment highlights Anderson’s skill and the film’s acclaim within the international cinematic community.
Notable Nominees
This year’s leading contender was Richard Linklater’s Nouvelle Vague, which received nominations in ten categories, including:
- Best Director
- Best Film
- Best Original Screenplay
- Best Cinematography
Other competitive films included The Ties That Bind Us by Carine Tardieu, Case 137 by Dominik Moll, and The Great Arch by Stéphane Demoustier, all boasting eight nominations each. Additionally, The Little Sister by Hafsia Herzi garnered seven nominations, while The Richest Woman In The World by Thierry Khifla received six.
César Ceremony Highlights
The ceremony was hosted by Benjamin Lavernhe, known for his roles in The Marching Band and Jean du Barry. He ignited the night with an energetic tribute to Jim Carrey, who received an honorary César. This celebration continued the tradition of honoring outstanding figures in cinema, following past honorees like Julia Roberts (2025) and Christopher Nolan (2024).
Opening Speeches
Camille Cottin, the president of the ceremony, delivered an incisive opening speech. She emphasized cinema as a national treasure and a vital tool against authoritarianism. Her passionate message highlighted the commitment to freedom and culture, urging support for those fighting for their rights worldwide.
A Glimpse of Award Winners
Below is a brief overview of some winners from the event:
| Award Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Best Original Screenplay | Franck Dubosc, Sarah Kaminsky for How To Make A Killing |
| Best Screenplay Adaptation | Carine Tardieu, Raphaële Moussafir, Agnès Feuvre for The Ties That Bind |
| Best Supporting Actress | Vimala Pons for The Ties That Bind Us |
| Best Documentary | Whispers in the Woods directed by Vincent Munier |
| Best Animated Feature | Arco by Ugo Bienvenu |
This year’s Césars demonstrated a robust celebration of creativity and artistry. With wins for films and performances that resonate deeply, the night highlighted the vibrancy of the French film industry.
