Renowned filmmaker Roman Polanski faces a defamation lawsuit in Paris, brought by actress Charlotte Lewis for alleged sexual assault in the 1980s.

Lewis's allegations, made public in 2010, believed initially time-barred, are now leading to the French justice system's first address of the accusations against Polanski.

The trial garners increased attention amid the #Metoo movement's influence and fresh sexual misconduct allegations against other high-profile entertainment figures.

Polanski, a fugitive from the U.S. justice system for a 1977 rape case, remains in France due to its policy against extraditing its citizens.

He continues his career in Europe, with his latest film 'The Palace' having been screened at the Venice Film Festival.

Polanski will not be present at the trial but will be represented by his legal team, leaving the outcome of the trial uncertain.