Brest European Short Film Festival

The biggest short film festival in the West

Founded in 1986, the Brest European Short Film Festival has become over the decades one of the major European short film events. Organized by the association Côte Ouest, it is held every year in November at Le Quartz, Brest's national stage, and in other venues in the city. The festival celebrated its 40th edition in 2025, demonstrating its longevity and importance in the European film landscape.

Prestigious competitions

The festival is structured around three main competitions: the European competition, the French competition, and the Breton competition. More than 150 films are programmed each year, offering an exceptional panorama of contemporary short film creation. Animated films, documentaries, and fiction films are represented, highlighting young European talents and new cinematic narratives.

A festival for all audiences

Beyond the competitions, the festival offers 8 special programs dedicated to families, adapted by age group from 2 to 16 years old, with carefully selected animated and fiction films. Out-of-competition screenings, meetings with directors, and themed evenings complete the program. The Bal du Court, an emblematic festive evening, traditionally concludes the festival.

A springboard for European filmmakers

The festival is recognized as an essential springboard for young European filmmakers. Several awards are presented by professional juries and by the public, offering valuable visibility to the winning films. The festival also develops Seasons of Encounters throughout the year, extending its outreach and promotion of short films.