CLERMONT-FERRAND 2025 DIARIES
Day 1 – The Arrival and the Unmistakable Energy
Landing in Clermont-Ferrand feels like stepping into a different world. The air is thick with anticipation, and the streets are buzzing with filmmakers, producers, and cinephiles. Before WE could even grab my badge, WE noticed the lines—long, winding queues of eager festival-goers waiting for tickets to short films. Not just any films, but shorts by emerging filmmakers. It hit US: the love for short films isn’t just steady—it’s growing at an incredible rate.
Day 2 – A Global Market in Motion
The screenings are exhilarating, but the real business is happening at the Short Film Market. Walking through the packed corridors, WE could hear snippets of meetings—deals being pitched, projects being discussed, partnerships being formed. Sales agents, distributors, festival programmers, and streaming platforms were all in deep conversation, coffee cups in hand, business cards exchanged in rapid succession.
This year, a trend was impossible to ignore: Asian and European streaming platforms are aggressively expanding into short films. Representatives from major platforms were on the hunt, looking for fresh talent and unique voices. For filmmakers, this means opportunities—co-productions, acquisitions, and new ways to get their work in front of global audiences. But with opportunities come challenges. Competition is fierce, and it’s crucial to understand market trends, rights negotiations, and the fine print of distribution deals.
Day 3 – The LAST DAY
WE spent most of the day at the market, weaving in and out of meetings. Every conversation reinforced the same truth: the short film industry is evolving fast, and those who understand the business side will have a huge advantage. The market had an electricity to it—every pitch held the potential for something bigger.
What Lies Ahead for Short Filmmakers?
While the business landscape is opening up with fresh opportunities, filmmakers should also be aware of challenges. The demand for content is high, but so is the competition. Streamers and distributors are looking for films that fit specific niches, making it crucial for filmmakers to understand market trends and tailor their pitches accordingly. Additionally, with so many players entering the scene, navigating rights, distribution deals, and festival strategies requires more knowledge than ever.
3 Essential Tips for Navigating Clermont-Ferrand
Book Your Meetings Early: The market is fast-paced, and everyone’s schedule fills up quickly. If you want to secure face-to-face time with key industry figures, start reaching out weeks in advance.
Spend Time at the Market: While screenings are the heart of any festival, the real business happens in the market. Spend time exploring different stands, talking to distributors, and learning what buyers are looking for.
Don’t Forget to Have Fun and Immerse Yourself in the Arts: Festivals can be overwhelming, but they’re also an incredible source of inspiration. Take time to watch films, meet fellow filmmakers, and soak in the creative energy.
Clermont-Ferrand continues to prove that short films have a thriving future—not just as a stepping stone to features but as a powerful form of storytelling in their own right. Whether you’re a filmmaker, producer, or distributor, the opportunities are growing. The key is to stay informed and most importantly, keep telling great stories.
