Grindhouse Nights combines the best in independent horror films with live entertainment. Held twice per year, in Spring and Fall, this one day event is designed to showcase the filmmakers, and give them an opportunity to screen their films in front of local fans.

We focus primarily on horror and exploitation type films, but we will also review and accept sci-fi, fantasy or dark drama at the panel's discretion.

We also have live entertainment throughout the day, for example, burlesque dancers, sideshow performers, singers, bands, etc. and we also have costumed entertainers and our models, The Grindhouse Girls, mixing and mingling with the crowd to bring the fans a truly unique experience that is unlike any other film festival.

We HIGHLY encourage the filmmakers to be in attendance if at all possible. One of the main features of our event is the Q&A that takes place after each film, and the ability for filmmakers and fans to mix, mingle and network.

NOTE: While we accept submissions from all over the country, we HIGHLY recommend that, if you submit, you are reasonably sure you would be able to attend the event, as that is a big part of what makes us successful. We DO NOT often screen films from filmmakers that are not from the NY/NJ/PA/CT area and we DO NOT want to mislead anyone!!

Awards & Prizes

Please be aware that NO awards are given at the event. Our festival is designed to showcase the filmmakers and their work in a fun, relaxed environment, without worrying about awards or competition.

Rules & Terms

PLEASE MAKE NOTE OF THESE TERMS:

Films are reviewed for acceptance by a panel and all decisions are final. This is a curated festival, and there are no awards or prizes given. This festival caters specifically to filmmakers and fans in the NY/NJ/PA/CT area, and it is highly recommended that the filmmakers be in attendance where possible. Part of the attraction of our festival is the Q&A session that we conduct after each film, and the interaction between the filmmakers and fans.

We do occasionally accept exceptional films from outside this area, and we have screened films from all over the United States and International films as well. We just want to make it clear that we do favor local filmmakers. Again, while we will accept your submission, we DO NOT often accept films from filmmakers that are not local to the NJ/NY/PA/CT area, and we DO NOT want to mislead anyone.

IMPORTANT NOTE: We focus on short films that are 30 minutes or less, so we can screen as many films as possible. We will however accept feature films for submission, just be aware that any feature really must be exceptional. We're just being honest here!

If there are ever any questions about this policy, please do not hesitate to ask.
7 Reviews
Overall Rating
Quality
Value
Communication
Hospitality
Networking
  • Adam Seccafico

    Had a blast, met some cool people and watched some decent movies. Highly recommend this festival.

    October 2019
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    Response from festival:

    We're so glad that you had a good time and enjoyed yourself. Thank you for the kind words and we hope to see you again next time!

  • Tim OHearn

    Great atmosphere, not competitive, a full day and night of movies with burlesque entertainment between film blocks, Q&A's with filmmakers, great networking with other filmmakers. Just a lot of fun with a great bunch of people who also raise money for Scares That Care!!

    September 2019
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    Response from festival:

    Thank you so much! Glad you had such a positive experience.

  • Kai Erfurt

    Thank for selecting BETA. Great Festival.

    September 2019
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    Response from festival:

    We were thrilled to screen your terrific film. Thank you for sharing your work with us!

  • Scott Perry

    Terrific atmosphere and fun times. Definitely a great haven for filmmakers to get to know each other. There is always a good crowd and great responses. I couldn't recommend Grindhouse Nights enough.

    September 2019
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    Response from festival:

    Thank you! We're glad you had a good time!

  • Philip Kral

    I've been meaning to get to this festival for years and now that I was finally free enough to go.. it did not disappoint. The films where all quality, the sound and projection went off without a hitch. There was plenty of time and opportunity to network and it's one of the very few festivals I know with burlesque shows in between film blocks. The festival also contributes to charity, so its money well spent. Just a warning, there's no award ceremony for those that care. But truthfully this was one of those festivals where I couldn't of cared less and that says a lot.

    September 2019
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    Response from festival:

    Thank you for the kind words. We truly appreciate your feedback, and that you had a positive experience at the show!