Horrorwood Film Festival

🎬 RULES & TERMS — HORRORWOOD FILM FESTIVAL

1. Submissions:
All submissions must be made through FilmFreeway. Entry fees are non-refundable. Films must be submitted as digital screeners. No physical media (DVDs, Blu-rays, USBs) will be accepted.

2. Genres Accepted:
We accept all forms of horror — psychological, supernatural, slasher, thriller, dark comedy, creature feature, found footage, experimental, and more. Sci-fi, fantasy, and suspense films with horror elements are also welcome.

3. Eligibility:
– All films must have been completed after January 1, 2022.
– Foreign films must include English subtitles.
– Student films are welcome and must provide proof of enrollment upon request.
– No AI-generated films will be accepted. Films using artificial intelligence for storytelling, animation, or image generation are automatically disqualified.

4. Exhibition Format:
If selected, filmmakers must provide a high-quality MP4 or DCP file. Files must be received by the deadline stated in the acceptance email. Failure to deliver exhibition materials on time may result in disqualification.

5. Selection Process:
All films are reviewed by our programming team. Final selections are at the discretion of the festival directors. Submission does not guarantee acceptance. Due to the large volume of entries, feedback cannot be provided.

6. Screening & Attendance:
We encourage all filmmakers to attend the festival in person! However, attendance is not required for screening eligibility. Films will be screened as part of the Horrorwood Film Festival at the Detroit Horror Con in Aug 2026.

7. Permissions:
By submitting, you confirm that you hold all necessary rights to exhibit the film. The festival may use clips, trailers, and stills for promotional purposes.

8. Liability:
While every care will be taken with submitted materials, the festival cannot accept responsibility for loss or damage.

9. Attendance & Conduct:
Filmmakers and guests are expected to maintain professional conduct at all times. The festival reserves the right to revoke participation or awards for unprofessional behavior.

10. Filmmaker Buzz/Promo Tables:
We will offer 3 tables outside screening room for filmmakers to promote their film. These are shared tables and subject to availability and based on first come.