Saint-Jean-de-Luz International Film Festival

Saint-Jean-de-Luz International Film Festival: the cinema of tomorrow

Since 2014, the Saint-Jean-de-Luz International Film Festival has established itself as a must-see event for auteur cinema in France. Succeeding the Young Directors Festival founded in 1996, this festival has retained the spirit of discovery and support for new talents while expanding its international scope.

An original concept: first and second films

The originality of the festival lies in its exclusive selection of first and second films by directors from around the world. This specificity allows for the identification of future major names in world cinema before they become established. Each edition presents about twenty feature films—including world and French premieres—and a dozen short films in competition.

Le Sélect cinema, the festival's setting

All screenings take place at the Le Sélect cinema, the only cinema in Saint-Jean-de-Luz, located in the heart of the city. This historic venue offers an intimate setting conducive to exchanges between the public and directors, with master classes and workshops organized alongside the screenings.

A prestigious awards ceremony

Two juries—a feature film jury and a short film jury—award sixteen prizes each year, including the Grand Prix, the Jury Prize, the Best Director Award, and the Best Actor/Actress Award. Parallel sections and preview screenings complete the program, making the festival a rich and diverse week of cinema.

An event rooted in the Basque Country

The festival contributes to the cultural influence of Saint-Jean-de-Luz and the Basque Coast. By attracting film professionals, journalists, and cinephiles from around the world, it participates in the city's tourist and economic dynamism while offering privileged access to quality cinema for the local public.