The 51st César Awards took place at the iconic Olympia venue in Paris, with Benjamin Lavernhe hosting and Camille Cottin presiding over the ceremony. Attendees were treated to a live event that highlighted the significant achievements in French cinema. Many nominations came from the film 'La femme la plus riche du monde', and in a nod to the film's theme, the nominees walked the red carpet dressed in black. In contrast, Mélanie Thierry, nominated for 'La chambre de Mariana', stood out in white, along with other figures such as Suzanne Lindon and Leila Bekthi who also chose lighter hues.

Among the notable appearances was Catherine Pégard, freshly appointed as the Minister of Culture, who expressed her excitement about attending the César Awards shortly after her new role. Her presence was particularly significant, marking a blend of culture and government as she recognized the importance of showcasing cinema in such a celebratory setting. Her attendance symbolizes the French government's support for the arts, especially in a year that continues to celebrate both the talent and struggles within the film industry.

The César Awards serve as a critical annual event that reflects the state of French cinema, trends in filmmaking, and cultural conversations within the country. Each ceremony not only awards talent but also sparks discussions regarding representation, themes, and the future of film in France. This year, the mixture of black and white on the red carpet added a visual layer that parallels the narratives being told in the films themselves, indicating a vibrant and conversant cinematic landscape in France today.