At the 50th Nuit des César, celebrated French-Greek director Costa-Gavras received the prestigious Honorary César Award, recognizing his extensive contributions to the world of cinema. At 92 years old, the award was presented to him by actress Karin Viard, who praised his remarkable career and influential works.
It was on February 28, 2025, during this milestone ceremony held at the historic Olympia venue in Paris, where the Académie des César paid tribute to Costa-Gavras for his lifelong dedication to filmmaking. With renowned titles such as Z and Missing under his belt, Costa-Gavras's films have not only entertained but have also sparked important conversations about political and social justice.
Karin Viard, who also stars alongside Costa-Gavras in his latest film, Le dernier souffle, expressed her admiration during the award presentation. "Thank you, Costa for proving we could make cinema with fervor, spirit, and impact. Sometimes, to change the world, one film is enough," she said, capturing the essence of his artistic philosophy.
Receiving the award, Costa-Gavras reflected on his career and his gratitude for the recognition. "I would like to thank this warm, humanist France, which refuses all dictatorships and all hate," he expressed, emphasizing his appreciation for the support he has received throughout his life and career.
The director's works have long been noted for their incisive exploration of political themes. From the portrayal of authoritarianism in Z, for which he received the Academy Award for Best Foreign Language Film, to tackling the injustices faced during the CIA’s operations depicted in Missing, his filmography highlights the struggles against oppression. His ability to weave gripping narratives with political urgency remains unmatched.
Though Costa-Gavras was honored with the César for the screenplay of Amen back in 2003, this Honorary César serves as both recognition of his past achievements and the lasting influence he continues to exert on cinema and society. "His name is inseparable from French cinema. His rich and varied work is a call for reflection," noted the César Academy, highlighting the depth and impact of his contributions.
During his acceptance speech, Costa-Gavras also addressed recent troubling events. Circling back to imply the continuing importance of activism through cinema, he poignantly asked, "The France can accept such acts?" referencing the violent confrontation against immigrant communities showcasing films independent of prevailing narratives. Such reflections not only tie his past to current societal issues but also reiterate the ever-relevant role of cinema as not just entertainment, but as commentary and critique.
Further emphasizing the weight of his words, Costa-Gavras concluded his speech with heartfelt thanks to those who influenced his path: “I would like to thank my country of adoption, this welcoming France, which stands firm against all hatred and refuses to bow to any dictatorship.”
Costa-Gavras’s legacy as a master of political thrillers is firmly cemented, with accolades including two Academy Awards, the Palestinian Gold at the Cannes Film Festival, and, recently, this Honorary César. His storytelling strives to shine light on the ordinary heroes struggling against injustices, compelling audiences to reflect and engage with the world around them. It is this ethos—that sometimes, to change the world, one film is enough—that has defined his illustrious career.
The 50th Nuit des César was not just a celebration of Costa-Gavras but also served as a reminder of the power of cinema to inspire change and provoke thought. His journeys as director and advocate continue to echo within the cinematic community and beyond.