Welcome to the eerie world of Screams by the Sea, the ultimate horror film festival in the South-West of England. Prepare to embark on a journey that takes you to the very beginnings of genre filmmaking, an event that celebrates spine-tingling movies from around the globe.

At Screams by the Sea, we meticulously curate a selection of films that take you on an emotional rollercoaster. From hair-raising jump scares to mind-bending psychological thrillers, each movie is handpicked to deliver maximum fright, leaving you on the edge of your seat, craving more.

Screams by the Sea is more than just a feast of awesome movies! Engage with fellow horror fans, share spine-chilling tales, and participate in the activities along side the films.

But that's not all! In addition to our film screenings, networking event, and film making panel, we are thrilled to host a screenwriting competition that could launch your horror story onto the big screen. Enter our competition for a chance to win a production deal, where the winning screenplay will be transformed into a feature film. Unleash your creativity, captivate our judges, and your terrifying tale could come to life in all its chilling glory. (More details to be posted in our socials soon.)

Join us at Screams by the Sea and unleash your fear. Whether you're a die-hard horror fan or simply seeking an adrenaline-fueled adventure, this festival promises to leave you breathless and yearning for more. All films screened are rated 15+

Awards & Prizes

Audience choice award.

Rules & Terms

Terms and Conditions - Screams by the Sea International Horror Film Festival

Eligibility:
a. Screams by the Sea International Horror Film Festival ("the Festival") is open to horror filmmakers worldwide.
b. We accept feature films (90 minutes) and short films within the horror genre (up to 12min).
c. Films must be completed after 2018.
d. By submitting a film, you confirm that you hold all necessary rights and grant permission for the Festival to screen it.
e. The feature films submitted need to be rated 15+.

Submission Guidelines:
a. Submit your film through our official platform before the specified deadlines.
b. Fill out the entry form with accurate information.
c. Additional materials like trailers and still images may be requested.

Selection Process:
a. Our team will review all submitted films and make the final selections.
b. Our decisions are final.

Festival Screenings and Events:
a. The Festival takes place in Dorset, England, on specified dates.
b. We schedule and program the selected films.
c. Filmmakers of selected films must provide screening copies in the specified format and time frame.

Awards and Prizes:
a. Awards include Audience Choice Award.
b. Winners are chosen by our amazing audience.
c. Screenplay Award - The winning screenplay will be offered a production deal.

Promotion and Publicity:
a. By submitting a film, you grant us the right to use excerpts, stills, video and audio for promotional materials.
b. We encourage filmmakers to actively promote their films and the Festival.

Liability:
a. The Festival organizers and affiliates are not liable for any damages or losses.
b. Filmmakers are responsible for obtaining necessary rights and permissions.

Acceptance of Terms:
a. Submitting a film indicates acceptance of these Terms and Conditions.

Screenwriting Competition:
a. We're hosting a feature film screenwriting competition throughout the Festival.
b. The winning screenwriter will be awarded a production deal.
c. Competition rules and deadlines will be announced separately.

We welcome horror filmmakers to submit their work to the Screams by the Sea International Horror Film Festival. Get ready to showcase your chilling creations and be part of the horror community!