Women’s groups in France have condemned the decision to invite veteran producer Roman Polanski to preside over the Cesar Awards, known as the “French Oscars”.
“Artist, film-maker, producer, screenwriter, actor, director – there are many words to define Roman Polanski,” the Academie said.
He fled over fears that the judge hearing his case would overrule the plea bargain and he would be imprisoned again.
He pleaded guilty to unlawful sex but denied rape, serving 42 days in prison after accepting a plea bargain.