We return for another Halloween takeover, our 6th terrifying year of the Saloon, bringing captivating independent horror to our devoted audience of wretched undead cinephiles.

All bets are off and we want to see what scary short films you've concocted in your diabolical brains so together we can remind people that Halloween isn't make-believe.

We welcome LOCAL entries from a variety of genres, including horror, gothic, dark-fantasy, magic realist, occult, and post-apocalyptic.

And as always- the Haunted Saloon also accepts Western films (especially the darker ones) and Halloween films in general.

All entries must have a run-time of less than 30 minutes, and should have been completed in the last 3 years. Also- starting this year- all entries must be local to British Columbia.

Previous Winners taking home our iconic trophies (awards also given on IMDB)-

2020 Best Short Film- DELETED (dir: John Flahr)
2020 Best Acting- Micheal MacKinnon (Acedia)
2020 Best Monster- Dama Branca (dir: Panta Mosleh)

2019 Best Short Film- First Bite (dir: Mily Mumford)
2019 Best Acting- Gabriel Carter (Roses)
2019 Best Monster- The Creature (Night Terror)

2018 Best Short Film- The Desolation Prize (dir: Shane Day)
2018 Best Acting- M.J Kehler (The Desolation Prize)
2018 Best Monster- The Beaver (No Man's Dam)

2017 Best Short Film- Madre de Dios (dir: Gigi Saul Guerrero)
2017 Best Acting- Kevin Saxby (Bubble Bath)
2017 Best Monster- The Couple (Madre de Dios)

2016 Best Short Film- The Werewolf Who Came to Dinner (dir: Jem Garrard)
2016 Best Acting- Ariel Hansen (Ghost Can)
2016 Best Monster- El Gigante (El Gigante)

EVS accepts short films of up to 30 minutes.

Horror is our favourite, however Gothic Western (and even just plain Western, we are the Haunted Saloon after all) along with anything inspired by Halloween is welcome at our festival. Films will be judged by a jury of filmmakers based on quality of production, depth of narrative, and overall affect.

These days we are putting a strong priority on locally made films, or films made by residents of British Columbia.

Please submit an online screener.

Overall Rating
Quality
Value
Communication
Hospitality
Networking
  • Larke Miller

    I and others from Pluto had a wonderful time at East Van Showcase's 2020 edition. They created a virtual party/awards ceremony, where we were able to interact with other filmmakers. The program was top notch. I highly recommend East Van Showcase.

    December 2020
  • Kyle D'Odorico

    The East Van Showcase has one of the liveliest and fun festivals in town, especially the Haunted Saloon editions. The organizers poured a lot of time in the costuming, presentation and performances that made this more than just a screening, but a genuine night out.

    The film's curated for the showcase all showed artistry, depth and a commitment to the craft. A truly memorable night of film and entertainment.

    November 2019
  • It has been a great experience. It was our first time at this festival and we were delighted that our short film "Lobisome" was selected.

    October 2018
  • Jon Warne

    We were so lucky to accepted to the East Van Showcase for our Canadian Premiere of The Desolation Prize. Sean and James went out of their way to make sure our team could attend to see the film, and we were lucky to leave with Best Short Film and Best Actor. I look forward to more Hammer and Tong shows!

    October 2018
  • Jessica Blaquiere

    East Van Showcase: Halloween Havoc put together an excellent event this year! The films were all wonderful, the event was well attended, and everyone was in their full Halloween spirit. All around, a great film fest to participate in!

    November 2017