The Ax Wound Film Festival showcases a diverse selection of horror films written and directed by women from around the world.

For the past six years, we have featured over 200 films, memorable and robust Q&A panels, practical workshops, and hosted thoughtful/accessible presentations that weave together social/political themes prevalent in the horror genre.

*

Since 2015, the festival has taken place at the Hooker-Dunham Theater and Gallery in Brattleboro, VT. Due to Coronavirus, we had to cancel last year’s 2020 event, and airing on the side of caution we will host the 2021 festivities 100% virtually.

Awards & Prizes

Once accepted we celebrate all filmmakers equally.

This fosters a communal vibe conducive to networking with like-minded women who may end up becoming new friends or future collaborators.

*Even though we do not give physical awards we always have exciting gifts for filmmakers and prizes such a screenwriting software and products from women-run businesses *

***UPDATES***:

-All selected filmmakers will have the option to take part in a raffle in which 10 winners get a free copy of Final Draft Screenwriting software!
-Ax Wound Film Festival is partnering with Videomaker to provide complimentary digital magazine subscriptions to all filmmakers submitting their films in 2021.

All accepted filmmakers will be invited to take part in a virtual Q&A, be featured on our social media channels, blog, and we will work to create press opportunities.

Rules & Terms

-All submissions *must* be written and directed by women filmmakers.
-Films can be completed any year but we ask that they not be available online until after the festival once accepted.

31 Reviews
Overall Rating
Quality
Value
Communication
Hospitality
Networking
  • Angela Atwood

    Ax Wound is a wonderful, warm-hearted, inspiring festival. Lady Hunters got to play in a gorgeously curated block, and that is no small feat! All the films we saw that weekend were terrific, and I got to meet some really fantastic filmmakers. Communication was always easy and friendly, the marketing and images are cool and fun, and it was just lovely getting to hang out and support other female horror filmmakers. Such a warm, friendly group, a standard that is set by its incredibly warm, professional, caring, and friendly director!

    February 2020
    Helpful
  • Diana Porter

    This festival is the best of Women Empowering Women and it is just so wonderful! The greet you with an EXCELLENT swag bag and free snacks and drinks. The Theatre is intimate and it helps create an environment where networking is easy. We're all watching movies together and afterwards we discuss them! The town is adorable and it's an easy walk to a few cute spots to grab a meal. I met a TON of wonderful film makers, who I have had continued contact with and am planning future project with at least 2! Love it!
    The Organizers go above and beyond promoting the films and reaching out to film makers. They aren't just friendly, they are AMAZING. I don't plan to have a film ready to submit next year, but I will attend.

    December 2019
    Helpful
  • Georgina French

    I wasn't able to attend the festival unfortunately, but the communication leading up to the festival was warm and friendly. Thank you very much for supporting Women in Horror and for supporting our film in particular :) Hope to make it over the pond to Vermont another year. Best wishes

    December 2019
    Helpful
  • Wanda Nolan

    I highly recommend submitting to AxWound. Their passion for horror and horror audiences is incredible. Communication was great. And, their support for filmmakers through social media posts was really appreciated. I hope to show there again so that I can make it to Vermount to take part!

    November 2019
    Helpful
  • January Jones

    I was thrilled to have Lone Wolf included in Ax Wound Film Festival's official selection. I was unable to attend the festival but communication and social media shout-outs were great. I will definitely submit again and would love to attend in the future.

    November 2019
    Helpful