The 5 Best Horror Film Festivals to Submit Your Film To in 2023
If you’re an indie horror filmmaker, then you know that submitting your film to film festivals is a necessary step in order to get your film seen by the masses. There are countless horror film festivals out there, but which ones should you submit your film to? In this article, we will discuss the 5 best horror film festivals to submit your film to. These are some of the most exciting, innovative and value-driven horror film fests around, so let’s get to it!
1. The Los Angeles International Horror Film Festival
The Los Angeles International Horror Film Festival is one of the most exciting horror film festivals in the space. They have an impressive lineup of both feature and short films each year, and they’re always looking for new and exciting indie horror films to showcase. If you’re looking to submit your film to a horror film festival that has a lot of value, education, resources and opportunity, then this is the one for you.
According to the festival’s official page:
“The Los Angeles International Horror Film Festival is the most exciting horror film festival in the modern filmmaking world. We’re dedicated to showcasing films from the world’s most talented genre filmmakers. Our program is packed with award-winning films from every corner of the world. This started as a way of showcasing our love for all things horror, and it’s grown to be a complete, value-packed celebration of horror filmmaking surrounded by other incredible talented and passionate creators!”
Quick Information:
Submissions Opening Date – June 25, 2021
Event Date – June 28 – 30, 2022
Submission Fee Range – $8 – $40
SUBMIT HERE
2. Fantasia International Film Festival
The Fantasia International Film Festival is one of the most popular horror film festivals in the world. They showcase a wide variety of horror films, from independent to studio releases. If you’re looking for a horror film festival that has a little bit of everything and a very large cult following: then this is the one for you.
According to the festival’s official page:
“Fantasia is a legendary 3-week blow-out of worldwide fantastic cinema taking place each July in the heart of Montreal. An event hell-bent on showcasing the most exciting, innovative and individualistic examples of contemporary international genre cinema from every corner of the globe.”
Quick Information:
Submissions Opening Date – October 14, 2021
Event Date – July 14 – August 3, 2022
Submission Fee Range – $20 – $92
SUBMIT HERE
3. ScreamFest LA
ScreamFest LA is one of the oldest and most-respected film festivals in the United States. They have a very impressive track record, having showcased films like The Blair Witch Project and Paranormal Activity before they were released to the public. If you’re looking for a horror film festival with an impressive pedigree and lots of industry recognition: Then ScreamFest LA is an excellent choice!
According to the festival’s official page:
“Screamfest® Horror Film Festival is the largest and longest running horror film festival in the United States. Paranormal Activity was discovered and premiered at the festival in 2007. The festival showcases new genre films from around the world. Other premieres have included Paranormal Activity: The Ghost Dimension, Paranormal Activity, Dead Ant, Trick ‘r’ Treat, 30 Days of Night, The Human Centipede, American Mary, Diary of the Dead”
Quick Information:
Submissions Opening Date – January 6, 2022
Event Date – October 11 – 20, 2022
Submission Fee Range – $32 – $82
SUBMIT HERE
4. Crimson Screen Horror Film Fest
The Crimson Screen Horror Film Fest is a legendary horror film festival in the world of horror. They’ve made a name for themselves as one of the most fun and innovative fests in the world. They’re always looking for new voices in horror, and they have an impressive lineup of both short and feature films each year. If you’re looking for a horror film festival that is truly cutting edge and always on the forefront of horror: Then Crimson Screen is the place for you.
According to the festival’s official page:
“Crimson Screen Horror Film Fest is South Carolina’s first and largest horror film festival! The 2023 festival will take place over three days in beautiful Charleston, South Carolina and will feature some of the best independent horror films from all over the world. We will be screening all of our Official Selections at South of Broadway Theater located in the heart of Park Circle. Forget the Oscars! We have the “Crimmy’s”! All Official Selections (films and screenplays) will be competing at a chance for a Crimmy in over 20 categories. Our Crimmy trophies are designed by “The Conjuring” and “Annabelle” special effects artist Tony Rosen, who also designed the famous “Annabelle” doll for both films. Each trophy is handmade and signed by Tony himself.”
Quick Information:
Submissions Opening Date – May 24, 2021
Event Date – May 27 – 29, 2022
Submission Fee Range – $18 – $60
SUBMIT HERE
5. New York City Horror Film Festival
The New York City Horror Film Festival is one of the most well-respected and historic horror film festivals in North America. They’re always looking for new and exciting horror work to showcase, and they have a well-earned reputation for being one of the most prestigious horror film festivals in the world. If you want your horror film to be seen by some of the most interesting people in the horror genre: then submitting it to New York City Horror Film Festival is always an excellent choice!
According to the festival’s official page:
“Established by MooDude Films CEO / Producer / Director / Michael J. Hein in 2001. The NYCHFF is a week long event that takes place each November at venues throughout New York City. The NYCHFF has grown to be a world recognized event, with industry, filmmakers, and press attention from around the globe.The Hein Family is committed to keeping the festival alive in memory of the truly missed and loved founder Michael J Hein.”
Quick Information:
Submissions Opening Date – January 6, 2022
Event Date – December 1 – 4, 2022
Submission Fee Range – $35 – $67
SUBMIT HERE
In Conclusion: The 5 Best Horror Film Festivals to Submit Your Film To in 2023
There are tons of other great horror film festivals out there. But these five always seem to rise to the top in our book. If you’re looking to submit your horror film to a festival.. Then any one of these five would be an excellent choice for you. Happy submitting! And best of luck.
