Fear Screen is a horror film festival based in the North East of England, celebrating independent horror, thriller, and dark genre cinema. We champion bold storytelling, atmospheric filmmaking, and original voices from emerging talent and established filmmakers alike.

Taking place in November 2026, the festival will feature curated screenings, filmmaker Q&As, panel discussions, and networking opportunities for filmmakers, industry professionals, and horror fans.

From psychological horror and supernatural tales to slashers, folk horror, and experimental work, Fear Screen is a home for films that explore fear with imagination, craft, and conviction. We are committed to supporting independent voices and creating a welcoming space where genre cinema can be discovered, discussed, and celebrated.

Awards & Prizes

Fear Screen is dedicated to celebrating originality, creativity, and excellence in horror filmmaking. We recognise outstanding work from first-time filmmakers, emerging talent, and established industry professionals alike, with a particular commitment to championing the distinctive voices of the North East of England alongside exceptional international submissions.

All official selections are reviewed by our programming and awards panel, drawing on experience across film production, criticism, and festival curation. Each film is considered on its own merits, with a focus on imagination, craft, storytelling, and overall impact.
Winners will be announced during the festival and presented with official Fear Screen trophies and laurels. Selected categories may also benefit from tailored promotional support designed to raise visibility and help filmmakers connect with audiences, peers, and industry contacts.

Full details of our award categories, including eligibility criteria and submission guidance, can be found here:
https://fearscreen.com/awards/category

Award recipients will receive their official laurels and trophies during our ceremony on Friday 13th November. Winners will also be featured across our website and social media channels, with additional promotion through selected creative partners, press contacts, and industry networks where appropriate.

Rules & Terms

Fear Screen Film Festival – Rules & Terms of Entry

By submitting to Fear Screen Film Festival, you confirm that you have read and agree to the following terms.

Eligibility
We accept submissions from filmmakers worldwide. All films must fall within horror or closely related genres, including thriller, supernatural, psychological, and dark cinema.
Accepted formats include short films, features, documentaries, experimental work, animation, music videos, and student films.
Films must be original works and must not infringe on any third-party rights.
Non-English films must include accurate English subtitles.

AI Policy (Important)
Fear Screen is a human-first festival. Films created using AI for core creative elements (including writing, performances, or visual generation) are not eligible and will be disqualified.
AI may only be used for technical support (e.g. colour grading, clean-up, VFX assistance) and must be disclosed.
Full policy: https://fearscreen.com/policies/ai

Submissions
All entries must be submitted via FilmFreeway only.
Please ensure:
Your screener link works for the full submission period
You provide a synopsis, filmmaker bio, and at least 3 stills
A poster and full credits are included where available
There is no strict production date requirement, though recent work is prioritised.

Selection & Screening
All films are reviewed by our programming team. Decisions are final.
Selected films grant Fear Screen a non-exclusive right to screen the work during the festival and related non-commercial events (e.g. partner screenings or showcases).
Not all selected films are guaranteed screening due to programme constraints.

Awards
Awards are presented across multiple categories (see: https://fearscreen.com/awards/category).
All selected films receive official laurels.
Jury decisions are final, and awards may not be given if standards are not met.

Delivery
Selected films must provide a high-quality screening file (e.g. DCP, ProRes, or equivalent digital format).
You are responsible for delivering your film on time and in the correct format.

Rights & Legal
You must hold all necessary rights for your film, including music, performances, and all included content.

Submission fees are non-refundable. See: https://fearscreen.com/policies/refund
By submitting, you grant Fear Screen permission to use trailers, stills, and short excerpts (up to 2 minutes) for promotional purposes.

Full legal terms:
https://fearscreen.com/policies/terms

Privacy
Personal data is handled in accordance with UK GDPR.
Details may be used for festival communication and promotion if selected.

Full policy:
https://fearscreen.com/policies/privacy

Attendance & Promotion
Attendance is encouraged but not required.
Selected filmmakers may be invited to participate in Q&As or events.
Travel and accommodation are not covered unless agreed in writing.
We actively promote selected films across our platforms and partners.

Withdrawal & Disqualification
You may withdraw your film before selection. Fees remain non-refundable.
Selected films may only be withdrawn in exceptional circumstances.
We reserve the right to disqualify any film that breaches these rules.

Code of Conduct
We maintain a respectful and inclusive environment. Harassment, discrimination, or abusive behaviour will not be tolerated.
Breaches may result in removal from the festival.

Liability
Fear Screen is not liable for technical issues, loss, or damages related to submissions or participation.
If the festival is cancelled or altered due to unforeseen circumstances, we will make reasonable efforts to adapt. Fees remain non-refundable.

Updates
Rules may be updated at any time. Continued participation constitutes acceptance.
Full Rules & Filmmaker Info:
https://fearscreen.com/filmmakers/rules

Governing Law
These terms are governed by the laws of England and Wales.

Contact
For enquiries, please contact us via FilmFreeway or email submissions@fearscreen.com

By submitting, you confirm that you have the authority to enter this film and agree to all terms above.

We look forward to watching your work.