César 2020: 'Les Misérables' wins Best Film as Polanski controversy erupts

At the 2020 César Awards, Ladj Ly's 'Les Misérables' won Best Film, drawing from the 2005 Paris riots and other real events. However, the ceremony was overshadowed by protests against Roman Polanski, who won Best Director for 'An Officer and a Spy' but was absent. Polanski faces U.S. charges for minor corruption (since 1977) and a rape allegation by photographer Valentine Monnier (allegedly in 1975 in Switzerland). Actress Adèle Haenel walked out when Polanski's win was announced. Outside the Salle Pleyel, about 100 people protested his 12 nominations. The entire César board resigned to allow a complete renewal of the organization's leadership. Separately, the 15 editorial staff of Cahiers du Cinéma resigned, citing conflicts of interest with new owners who are eight producers, fearing loss of independence and a forced refocus on French cinema. The winners included Anaïs Demoustier (Best Actress), Roschdy Zem (Best Actor), and Bong Joon-ho's 'Parasite' (Best Foreign Film).