“Our trademark is family”: locals bring the Saint-Jean-de-Luz Festival to life

Zabou Breitman, José Garcia… In Saint-Jean-de-Luz, an audience of stars has been parading since Monday October 7 on the square of Sélect, the only cinema in the city of Corsaires. But here, no security barrier and few flashes and cameras. “We don’t have the stature of Cannes. Our trademark is family,” says Frédéric Cadet, director of Saint-Jean-de-Luz Animations in charge of organizing the International Film Festival (FIF).

Since 2014, this confidential meeting of the 7th art, with a tight budget of 190,000 euros granted by the town hall, has celebrated young directors. In screening, first films from all over the world which attract an increasing number of audiences. “We even have devotees who take vacations to attend! », laughs Frédéric Cadet.

A craft organization

However, the success of this competition depends on a very small team. Just a press officer and an artistic director. Everything else is carried by residents, members of the municipal team and the Tourist Office, who, for a week, take on the role of nanny, photographers, chauffeurs to the stars… “It’s great to get out of its usual setting and to be able to try other enriching activities,” enthuses Deborah, who usually provides information to tourists at the counter and took photos of the event for a long time.