Femme FATAL is the premier genre festival spotlighting the female-identifying filmmakers redefining horror and sci-fi. Founded by Amelia Joyce and Roberta Sparta, the festival has grown from a single underground screening into a sold-out annual fixture– moving to a new LA venue each year and cementing itself as one of the most vital platforms for fearless, boundary-pushing genre storytelling.
Now in its fourth year, Femme FATAL keeps raising the bar. Submissions for the 2026 edition are open now on FilmFreeway, with the festival returning this October 18 for another night of genre filmmaking at its sharpest, timed to the Halloween season.
This is more than a festival. It's a movement. And it's only getting bolder.

Awards & Prizes

Best Kill - FATALity
SFX Artistry - BLOODY BRILLIANT
Best Female Lead - FINAL GIRL
Best Male Lead - SCREAM KING
Best of Fest - RED DEATH AWARD

Statue trophies are in collaboration with Society Awards. The winners are determined by the festival team. Awards and prizes are subject to change.

Rules & Terms

### 1. GENERAL INFORMATION

Femme FATAL (hereinafter referred to as "the Festival") is an annual event dedicated to showcasing innovative, inspiring, and independent cinema from around the world. The 2026 edition will take place in Los Angeles on 18 October 2026

By submitting a film to the Festival, the applicant agrees to be bound by the following Rules and Regulations.

### 2. ELIGIBILITY

* Films must have been completed after January 2025.
* Horror genre, short format is our focus. We accept drama, thriller and musical so long as there is a horror component
* Short films: Maximum runtime of **15 minutes**.
* Non-English films must include English subtitles.

### 3. SUBMISSION GUIDELINES

* All submissions must be made via FilmFreeway by 09/30/2026.
* Submission fees are non-refundable.
* Multiple entries are allowed, but a separate entry form and fee must accompany each submission.

### 4. SELECTION PROCESS

* All entries will be reviewed by the Festival’s screening committee.
* Official selections will be notified by 10/01/2026
* The Festival reserves the right to program selected films in any section it deems appropriate.

### 5. SCREENING FORMAT

* Accepted screening formats: DCP
* All films must be delivered in the required format by 10/12/2026.
* The Festival is not responsible for any damage to screening materials.

### 6. RIGHTS & PERMISSIONS

By submitting, the Entrant affirms:

* They hold all necessary rights, licenses, and clearances for the film, including music, footage, and talent releases.
* They grant the Festival permission to exhibit the film and use excerpts, stills, and promotional materials for marketing and press purposes.

### 7. LIABILITY

The Festival will take reasonable precautions to protect submitted materials but is not liable for loss or damage. The Entrant holds the Festival harmless from any claims or liabilities resulting from screening or promoting the film.