Biarritz Film Festival - Nouvelles Vagues

Biarritz Film Festival - Nouvelles Vagues: Young Cinema in the Spotlight

Since its creation in 2023, the Biarritz Film Festival - Nouvelles Vagues has established itself as an unmissable cinematic event on the Basque Coast. Every year at the end of June, Biarritz hosts emerging talents from global cinema for six days, with a program entirely focused on youth and new generations.

A Demanding International Competition

The heart of the festival is its international competition, which presents eight feature films in their French premiere. A prestigious jury, composed of figures from cinema and culture, awards the Nouvelles Vagues prize to the best film. This selection reflects the diversity of contemporary cinema, with works from around the world that carry the voices and concerns of young generations.

A Rich and Eclectic Program

Beyond the official competition, the festival offers over thirty additional films divided into several sections:

• Outdoor Screenings: Free sessions facing the ocean, in spectacular settings
• Gazteria Section: A program dedicated to young Basque audiences and local culture
• Major Premieres: Highly anticipated films screened exclusively
• Professional Meetings: Networking events for cinema professionals

A Festival Rooted in its Territory

The choice of Biarritz is not insignificant. The city, with its rich cultural history and exceptional setting between the ocean and mountains, offers a unique backdrop for this festival that aims to become a European benchmark for emerging cinema. Screenings take place in the city's historic cinemas and outdoor spaces, creating a festive and accessible atmosphere.

The Urgency of Youth

The festival's editorial line is clear: to highlight the stories, struggles, and aspirations of contemporary youth. The selected films address strong societal themes—identity, commitment, environment, digital—carried by young directors who are renewing the cinematic language.