The César Award is a prestigious film award presented annually in France to honor outstanding achievements in the French film industry. Established in 1976, it is named after the sculptor César Baldaccini, whose work inspired the award's trophy. The awards cover various categories, including Best Film, Best Director, and Best Actor, celebrating both established and emerging talent. The César Awards are often considered the French equivalent of the Academy Awards in the United States. The winners are chosen by members of the Académie des Arts et Techniques du Cinéma, which comprises industry professionals. The ceremony is a significant event in the French cultural calendar, attracting attention from filmmakers and audiences alike.