The city of Clermont-Ferrand, renowned for hosting one of the world’s top international short film festivals, has announced plans for a major expansion of the headquarters of the organization that manages this significant event annually.
The project involves the renovation and enlargement of La Jetée (The Pier), the current base of the organization Sauve Qui Peut le Court Métrage (SQPCM), which orchestrates the Clermont-Ferrand International Short Film Festival. This ambitious expansion, with a budget of $13.5 million (€12 million), will transform the site into the Cité du Court (City of Short Film).
La Jetée, taking its name from Chris Marker’s iconic 1962 science fiction short film, also houses one of the largest short film documentation centers globally, featuring archives from previous editions of the Clermont-Ferrand International Short Film Festival.
The Mayor of Clermont-Ferrand, Olivier Bianchi, who also serves as the President of the broader regional body Clermont Auvergne Métropole, has praised the initiative as a transformative step for the city’s engagement with the short film industry and its broader cultural and economic goals.
“The Cité du Court is more than just a structure; it represents a significant and structuring commitment to the cultural future of our region,” he remarked.
“It reflects our goal to establish Clermont-Ferrand as not only the capital of short films but also as a hub for cinematic innovation and format diversity. This facility will foster an industry known for creativity, dynamism, accessibility, and strong local ties. The Cité du Court will serve as a platform for knowledge sharing, creative support, and the professional development of emerging talents,” he added.
The 47th edition of the Clermont Ferrand International Short Film Festival earlier this year saw a record-breaking attendance of 173,000.
Since its inception in 1979, the festival has become a crucial platform for short films, highlighting early works by directors such as Céline Sciamma, Wes Anderson, Jaco Van Dormael, Mathieu Kassovitz, and Cédric Klapisch.
Over the years, SQPCM has broadened its mission to include year-round activities catering to both local and international audiences and professionals.
The expansion will see La Jetée’s size doubled, featuring a modernized screening room, an enlarged public documentation center, new educational spaces for image education and professional training, a cutting-edge educational and experimental film set for filmmakers, expanded office spaces for the festival staff, and a new café.
Construction is expected to commence in 2027, aiming for completion in time to celebrate the festival’s 50th anniversary in 2029.
The renovation and expansion are supported by Clermont Auvergne Métropole, the Conseil Départmental du Puy-de-Dôme, the French government, and the city of Clermont-Ferrand.
The project’s architectural plans are being developed by MU Architecture, known for their work on homes, schools, university buildings, and media libraries throughout France.
“For several years, and even more so in recent months, the SQPCM team, along with our partners, has been dedicated to conceiving and developing the Cité du Court,” stated SQPCM President Eric Roux.
“Our primary goal with this project is to extend the festival’s vibrant energy throughout the year. The Cité du Court is envisioned as a dynamic cultural venue where film distribution, education, training, and creation converge. It will be a central place in the region, enabling diverse audiences and global professionals to gather and exchange ideas,” he concluded.
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