The César Awards are France's national film awards, often considered the French equivalent of the Academy Awards. Established in 1975 by film producer Georges Cravenne and first awarded in 1976, they are presented annually by the Academy of Cinema Arts and Techniques (Académie des Arts et Techniques du Cinéma). The awards are named after the sculptor César Baldaccini, who designed the trophy, and honor outstanding achievements in the French film industry. The ceremony is typically held in Paris in late February and is televised nationally.