Lights, Camera… Scream! 🎥💀

The first-ever Dead Prairies Horror Movie Festival comes to life on September 26, 2026, at the historic SWT Lyceum Theatre!

We’ll be showcasing full-length and short horror films from around the world.

🎬 Film submissions open January 3, 2026

SPONSERS:
SWT LYCEUM THEATRE
EYECATCHER VIDEO
RAVEN AUTO REPAIR LTD
SPEEDY CREEK SIGN SHOP
TROPHY TOWNE
DRAIN GUYS
HORROR MOVIES AND SHIT PODCAST
H5 DOUGH TO GO
YELLOW CANARY BOOKS & STATIONERY

• BEST FULL LENGTH FILM

• BEST SHORT FILM

• AUDIENCE CHOICE AWARD (FULL LENGTH FILM)

• AUDIENCE CHOICE AWARD (SHORT FILM)

• BEST ACTRESS (FULL LENGTH FILM)

• BEST ACTOR (FULL LENGTH FILM)

• BEST ACTRESS (SHORT FILM)

• BEST ACTOR (SHORT FILM)

• We ONLY accept films that have not been commercially screened (theatrically, on television, or online) in the US or Canada. Additionally, films that have been released on home media are ineligible. Please DO NOT submit films that are freely available on streaming platforms like YouTube, Facebook, Vimeo, Tubi, or similar services. Note: This restriction does not apply to screenings at other film festivals.

• We strongly prefer digital submissions via platforms like FilmFreeway, Vimeo, or YouTube. However, if necessary, you may send physical copies (DVD/BLU-RAY) to our submission address. Please note that the Festival is not responsible for materials lost or damaged in transit.

• Films created primarily using artificial intelligence tools (including AI-generated video, animation, or performances) are not eligible for submission. All films must be primarily human-created.

• Music Videos are not eligible for submission.

• If your film is selected, we require it to be submitted in the highest available quality, in either .MOV, .MP4, or H.264 format.

• We are only accepting films in the following genres: Horror, Horror Comedy, Suspense, and Thriller.

• We accept films that have been completed within the last 5 years.

• Submissions must be in English or have English subtitles.

• By submitting your film, you grant DEAD PRAIRIES HORROR MOVIE FESTIVAL permission to exhibit your film at the festival and at other screenings (such as press previews, promotional events, "Best of" screenings, etc.) if selected.

• By submitting, you represent and warrant that you hold full legal rights and authority to submit the film/video for consideration. You affirm that all necessary consents, licenses, and approvals have been obtained. You agree to hold DEAD PRAIRIES HORROR MOVIE FESTIVAL and its sponsors harmless in any matters related to these rights. Submission does not guarantee acceptance into the festival. Acceptance into the festival is at the sole discretion of DEAD PRAIRIES HORROR MOVIE FESTIVAL.

• Should your film be accepted, you grant DEAD PRAIRIES HORROR MOVIE FESTIVAL the right to use any footage from the preview screener, as well as any submitted publicity photos or other materials, for promotional, non-commercial purposes.