2025 Festival Entries

All submissions must go through FilmFreeway. 

We accept shorts and features in all styles of horror, including thriller, dark sci-fi, supernatural, experimental, psychological horror and more.

See our Deadlines and Entry Fees on our FilmFreeway page.

Entry fees are non-refundable.

 Films that have premiered elsewhere or are online are still eligible for consideration.

Georgia-based filmmakers and films shot in Georgia are considered for Best Local Film. 

Filmmakers will be notified via FilmFreeway. Timely responses are appreciated.Screening files and materials must be submitted at least two weeks before the festival.  We do not pay rental fees for submitted work that is programmed.

Only festival alumni are eligible for entry fee waivers. Contact us about waivers only if you are an alumni with a new project you would like to enter. Please mention you are an alumni in your email.

Winners in each category will receive a custom trophy to mark their achievement.

Best Feature Film
Presented to the standout feature-length horror film, recognized for storytelling, craft, and overall impact.

Best Short Film
Awarded to a short horror film that shows originality, tension, and the ability to scare, disturb, or surprise in a compact format.

Best Director – Feature
Recognizes outstanding direction in a feature film, with special attention to pacing, mood, and vision.

Best Director – Short
Recognizes outstanding direction in a short film, highlighting creativity, atmosphere, and storytelling within a limited runtime.

Best Local Feature
Celebrates a Georgia-made feature film or filmmaker, showcasing local talent and creativity.

Best Local Short
Celebrates a Georgia-made short film or filmmaker, honoring the strength of the local horror community.

Best Blood & Gore
Recognizes outstanding use of practical or digital effects to deliver unforgettable moments of carnage, horror makeup, and gruesome visuals that embody the spirit of horror.

Twisted Vision Award
Given to the film with a dark, unsettling, and wildly original idea that pushes horror into bold new territory.

Nightmare Fuel Award
For the film that gets under your skin and lingers long after the credits roll.

Best Horror Comedy
Presented to a film that masterfully blends horror and humor, delivering scares and laughs in equal measure.

Breakout Filmmaker
Recognizes an emerging filmmaker whose vision, creativity, and execution mark them as a rising force in horror.

Audience Choice - Feature
Chosen by festival audiences, this award highlights the feature film that connected most strongly with viewers.

Audience Choice - Short
Chosen by festival audiences, this award highlights the short film that connected most strongly with viewers.

Jury Award - Feature
Special recognition from the festival jury for a feature film that demonstrates exceptional quality or innovation.

Jury Award - Short
Special recognition from the festival jury for a short film that demonstrates exceptional quality or innovation.

Feel free to email us if you would like confirmation of entry.