Deadhead Productions is a film production company with an affinity for horror and experimental work rooted in practical effects. Founded in 2018, Deadhead Productions crafts stories that explore the macabre as it relates to the human condition.

The Deadhead Productions Horror Film Festival celebrates just that.

Through this festival Deadhead Productions hopes to support, educate, and inspire West Virginians and encourage participation in local film industries. Aiming to get people involved in the independent film scene to bring film productions, of all sizes, to the mountain state. Though this event is rooted in West Virginia, submissions are open internationally for short horror films.

Submissions open MARCH 31, 2025 and close AUGUST 24, 2025.
There will be a late deadline with an increased submission fee closing SEPTEMBER 15, 2025.

The festival will take place NOVEMBER 1, 2025 at the Historic Alban Arts Center in St. Albans, West Virginia.

What to Expect When Attending our Fest:

Short Film Screenings - A handpicked selection of the best independent horror films showcasing innovative storytelling and jaw dropping special effects!

Networking Events - Connect with fellow horror lovers, industry professionals, and up-and-coming filmmakers.

Practical Effects Showcase - Live demonstrations of prosthetics and make-up Effects from Seasoned Industry Artists.

Women in Horror Spotlight - A dedicated award and cash prize, recognizing a female talent or production for its innovation in industry.

Vendors and Workshops - Hands on experiences where attendees can learn tricks of the trade and from splattering blood to face molding. Along with multiple vendors dedicated to their own local community and craft, showing how they express their love for horror!

Awards & Prizes

Winner of the Grand Prize, Best Horror Short Film, receives a $1,000 cash prize presented by Deadhead Productions.
Winner of the Special Jury Prize, Deadhead Woman in Film Award, receives a $500 cash prize presented by Deadhead Productions.

Best Narrative Horror Short Film
Grand Prize ($1,000 Cash Prize) Presented by Deadhead Productions
Deadhead Women in Film Award
Special Prize ($500) Presented by Deadhead Productions
Best Practical SFX presented by Die Rise Kill, LLC.

Best Director
Best Editing
Best Cinematography
Best Performance
Best Score
Most Horrifying
Mothman Award - Presented to local WV production

Rules & Terms

Deadhead Productions Horror Film Festival defines a short film as any film with a running time of 40 minutes or less, including credits. Any film longer than 40 minutes will not be considered.

Deadhead Productions Horror Film Festival celebrates the genre of horror through its submissions. Films that stray too far from the designated genre of horror will not be accepted (ex. comedy, romance, action). FILMS DEPICTING HATE CRIMES OR SYMBOLS OF ANY KIND WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES. YOU WILL BE BLOCKED FROM ALL FUTURE SUBMISSIONS AND AFFILIATIONS WITH DEADHEAD PRODUCTIONS, LLC.

All applicants must complete the official festival submission form located on FilmFreeway. Films submitted by mail, email, or any other form will not be considered.

Deadhead Productions is under no obligation to provide comments/feedback regarding submitted projects to any applicant.

Due to the number of films submitted, not all films will be screened. Films that are screened at the festival will be Official Selections. The prescreening committee will look for evidence of individualized participation within the medium, sensitivity in regards to the content of the film and an appreciation of creativity.

When submitting, PLEASE include the following information:

Contact email and phone number
Short description of your film
Cast + crew
Poster or thumbnail
Will be judged against the other submissions from the same category, and all submissions, regardless of category, will be considered for the “Best Horror Short Film.”