The Clermont-Ferrand International Short Film Festival, often hailed as the most meaningful cinematic event in France after cannes, is back for its 47th edition. Running from January 31 to February 8, 2025, this year’s festival promises to be a cinematic extravaganza, showcasing over 500 films across 11 venues in the Auvergne capital. With an expected 170,000 admissions and nearly 4,000 professionals from five continents, the festival is set to break records and captivate audiences worldwide.
A Festival of Diversity and Innovation
The festival’s program is a testament to its commitment to diversity and innovation. This year, 64 films will compete in the international competition, while 52 films vie for the national competition. Additionally, the laboratory series features 27 films, offering a platform for experimental and avant-garde works.
One of the highlights of this edition is the geographic focus on Lebanon, with three programs tracing the country’s cinematic production over the past two decades. A special program is dedicated to the works of Wissam Charaf, a prominent figure in Lebanese cinema.
Sound takes center stage in the thematic retrospective titled “The Short Noise”, which features 26 films divided into four programs. This unique series invites audiences to rediscover cinema through the prism of sound,offering a fresh viewpoint on storytelling.
For the second year, the festival introduces an XR competition, celebrating the intersection of cinema and virtual reality. This innovative category underscores the festival’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of traditional filmmaking.
A Hub for Industry Professionals
Running parallel to the festival is the Short Film Market,held from February 3 to 6. As the world’s leading market for the sale, acquisition, and licensing of short films, it attracts over 3,800 accredited professionals from more than 80 countries. Located at the Jean-et-Honoré-Fleury gymnasium, this event is a hub for networking and discovering opportunities in French, European, and international markets.
Immersive Experiences and Nightlife
For those seeking a more immersive experience, Le Off du Court offers a vibrant nightlife scene at Le Lieu-dit. Open from 7 p.m. to 4 a.m., this space is a blend of sound, image, and conviviality, were attendees can debrief sessions and connect with fellow cinephiles.
Practical Data
The festival’s screenings run from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., with sessions averaging 1.5 hours. Tickets are priced at €4.50 for a single entry, while a notebook of 15 non-nominative tickets costs €40. Venues include the Maison de la Culture, Agnès-Varda Amphitheater, Capitole cinema, and more.
For the full program and catalog, visit the official Clermont-Ferrand International Short Film Festival website.
| Key Highlights | Details |
|—————————————-|—————————————————————————–|
| Dates | January 31 – February 8, 2025 |
| Films | Over 500 films, including 64 in international competition |
| Focus | Lebanon’s cinematic history and Wissam Charaf’s works |
| Retrospective | “The Short Noise” – 26 films exploring sound in cinema |
| XR Competition | Virtual reality films |
| Short Film market | February 3–6, 2025 – World’s leading short film market |
| tickets | €4.50 per session; €40 for 15 non-nominative tickets |
Don’t miss this celebration of short films, where creativity, innovation, and cultural exchange converge in the heart of Clermont-Ferrand.
Editor’s Q&A: Clermont-Ferrand International short Film Festival 2025
Q: What makes the Clermont-Ferrand International Short Film Festival unique?
A: The festival stands out for its unparalleled scale and global reach. With 170,000 admissions and nearly 4,000 professionals attending from five continents, it’s a hub for cultural exchange and innovation.The festival’s commitment too diversity is evident in its programming, wich includes competitions, retrospectives, and special focuses like this year’s spotlight on Lebanese cinema. Additionally, its dedication to exploring new frontiers in filmmaking, such as the XR competition celebrating virtual reality, sets it apart as a leader in contemporary cinema.
Q: Can you tell us more about the festival’s focus on Lebanon?
A: This year,the festival shines a light on Lebanon’s rich cinematic history with three distinct programs. These trace the evolution of Lebanese cinema over the past two decades, offering audiences a comprehensive view of its artistic and cultural contributions. A special program is dedicated to the works of Wissam Charaf, a prominent figure in the Lebanese film industry. His films, known for their unique storytelling and visual style, will be a highlight for cinephiles and industry professionals alike.
Q: What is the significance of the thematic retrospective, “The Short Noise”?
A: “the Short Noise” is a groundbreaking retrospective that explores the role of sound in cinema. featuring 26 films divided into four programs, it invites audiences to experience storytelling through a fresh, auditory lens. This thematic focus not only highlights the technical and artistic importance of sound in filmmaking but also encourages viewers to rethink their relationship with cinema. It’s a testament to the festival’s commitment to innovation and its ability to offer unique perspectives on the art of film.
Q: What can industry professionals expect from the Short Film Market?
A: The Short Film Market is the premier event for the sale, acquisition, and licensing of short films. Held from February 3 to 6, it attracts over 3,800 accredited professionals from more than 80 countries.Located at the Jean-et-Honoré-Fleury gymnasium, the market is a vital platform for networking and discovering opportunities in French, European, and international markets. It’s an essential event for filmmakers, producers, and distributors looking to showcase their work and connect with industry leaders.
Q: Are there any opportunities for attendees to engage beyond film screenings?
A: Absolutely! For a more immersive experience, Le Off du Court offers a vibrant nightlife scene at Le Lieu-dit. Open from 7 p.m. to 4 a.m., this space blends sound, image, and conviviality, allowing attendees to debrief screenings and connect with fellow cinephiles in a relaxed and creative surroundings. It’s the perfect way to unwind and celebrate the art of filmmaking after a day of screenings and events.
Q: What are the practical details attendees should know?
A: Screenings run from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., with each session averaging 1.5 hours. Tickets are affordable, priced at €4.50 for a single entry, or €40 for a notebook of 15 non-nominative tickets. Venues include iconic locations like the Maison de la Culture, the Agnès-Varda Amphitheater, and the Capitole cinema. for the full program and catalog,visitors can check out the official Clermont-Ferrand International Short Film Festival website.
Q: What would you say are the key takeaways from this year’s festival?
A: This year’s festival is a celebration of creativity, innovation, and cultural exchange. From its diverse film selections and special focus on Lebanon to its groundbreaking XR competition and immersive experiences, the festival offers something for everyone. It’s a must-attend event for cinephiles, industry professionals, and anyone passionate about the art of filmmaking. Don’t miss this prospect to be part of a global community united by a love for short films.
Conclusion
The Clermont-Ferrand International short Film Festival 2025 promises to be a landmark event, breaking records and captivating audiences worldwide. With its commitment to diversity, innovation, and cultural exchange, it’s a testament to the enduring power of short films as a medium for storytelling and artistic expression. Whether you’re a filmmaker, industry professional, or simply a film enthusiast, this festival is an unmissable experience.