French Court Acquits Filmmaker Roman Polanski of Defamation Charges

Tuesday 14 May 2024 - 17:30

In a highly anticipated ruling, the French judicial tribunal in Paris acquitted acclaimed filmmaker Roman Polanski of defamation charges brought by British actress Charlotte Lewis. The 90-year-old director, who has faced numerous allegations of sexual assault and rape throughout his career, had been accused of making "odious lies" about Lewis in an interview published by Paris Match magazine in December 2019.

The judges of the 17th correctional chamber, which specializes in press-related cases, determined that Polanski's remarks did not constitute an abuse of his freedom of expression. They cited a significant discrepancy between the actress's public admiration and recognition of the director, which she had expressed until 2010, and her subsequent denunciation of the "violent nature" of their relationship at a time when she had decided to participate in the backlash against him.

The tribunal concluded that Polanski's statements did not contain any facts that could be considered detrimental to Lewis's honor and reputation. "This is an important decision," celebrated Polanski's lawyer, Delphine Meillet, who emphasized that it is possible to "doubt the word of an accuser."

However, the ruling was met with disappointment and sadness by Lewis, who broke down in tears and declared it a "very sad day for women who denounce their aggressors." Her attorney, Benjamin Chouai, indicated that she is "probably" going to appeal the decision, stating that "it's not over."

Polanski, who has been a fugitive in the United States for over four decades following a conviction for "unlawful sexual intercourse" with a 13-year-old girl, has been accused of sexual assault and rape by numerous women throughout his illustrious career. Despite these allegations, he has continued to work, winning an Oscar and a Palme d'Or at the Cannes Film Festival for his acclaimed film "The Pianist."

The legal battle between Polanski and Lewis is the latest chapter in the ongoing debate surrounding the treatment of high-profile figures accused of sexual misconduct, particularly in the context of the #MeToo movement. As the case continues to unfold, the impact of the French court's decision is likely to be closely watched and debated by the public and the media.