The Artist, French film of the year, winner of Cesar Awards

French film of the year on The Artist became a winner at the 37th annual Cesar Awards on Friday night in Paris.

Artist helmer Michel Hazanavicius was named best director in his home country, and he thanked his real-life leading lady Berenice Bejo, who later took the stage to accept her award for best actress for her breakout role in the movie.

Following the film’s success during Hollywood’s awards season, Warner Bros. rereleased Artist in 300 French theaters this year. Buzz from the Golden Globes through the BAFTAs proved positive for the little French film that has sold more than 2.1 million tickets in France and won more than 70 prizes across the globe since it premiered at the Festival de Cannes in May, making it the most awarded French film in history.