San Francisco’s ‘Another Hole in the Head’ Film Festival is a two week cinematic excursion into the realms of Science Fiction, Fantasy, Horror, and assorted other genres. Taking its cue from other legendary festivals such as Cannes and Sundance, Another Hole in the Head pulls together a diverse collection of films representing all varieties and budgetary considerations. Another Hole in the Head provides a unique vehicle for independent cinema. This year’s festival takes place December 1st - December 18th 2023 at the historic ROXIE cinema and 4 STAR theatre in San Francisco, CA. It will also take place on demand via Eventive and live on Zoom for those who can't make the live theater screenings.

With this festival, we seek broader horizons than the common interpretation of "genre film" allows. All styles of independent film are welcome to compete: whether it's a major production from a professional company, a student film, or a micro-budget labor of love, we are committed to giving each film due consideration.

We are located in a very receptive town for film, and we've built a passionate following over the years. 2023 will mark our 20th year among the most highly rated festivals in the world, and we're still growing!

San Francisco is the second largest film market in the country, and a great promotional platform for Indie filmmakers who are trying to get their film out into the world. Many films that screen at our festival spark the attention of other film festivals and film brokers/buyers. In addition, the films and the festival are reviewed by some of the top players in the industry, such as Variety, The San Francisco Chronicle, Dread Central, Bloody Disgusting, and Fangoria, just to name a few.


Audience Awards (Feature, Featurette, and Short):

Top Films
Best US Films
Best Foreign Films
Best Local Films
Best Student Films
Best Action/Adventure Films
Best Animated Films
Best Art/Experimental Films
Best Crime Films
Best Documentary Films
Best Fan Films
Best Fantasy Films
Best Horror Films
Best Musical/Music Video
Best Mystery/Noir Films
Best Science Fiction Films
Best Slasher/Splatter Films
Best Thriller/Suspense Films
Best Warped Comedy Films
Best Western Films

Staff Awards:
Favorite Feature
Favorite Featurette
Favorite Short

Best Trailer (entries limited to films screening in the festival)

Only online screeners will be considered for short films and featurettes. Any questions or other correspondence regarding non-feature film submissions should be addressed to Festival Producer Romany Adams (filmmakers@ahith.com).

Feature film screeners in the form of DVD, Blu-ray, and USB drive may be accepted for consideration with prior permission from Festival Producers George Kaskanlian Jr. (415-793-6868) or Eric Ringer (eric.ringer@gmail.com).

LEGAL STUFF: Submitters understand that submission of their work authorizes the Festival to use the work and all materials provided through FilmFreeway for exhibition, education and/or publicity purposes related to the festival; that the Festival will handle any prints, discs, and drives with a maximum of care but cannot be held liable for any damage or loss during shipping, preview, or screening, and also that the Festival is not responsible for any claim involving copyright, trademark, credits, or royalty infringement related to the work. Submitters may receive future correspondence from the Festival. The festival will never publish your film online under any circumstances.

Overall Rating
Quality
Value
Communication
Hospitality
Networking
  • This festival constantly shows great cinema and a lot of eyes get seen on these films. I love them and I can't wait to show future work at this fest.

    April 2023
  • Wyatt Ollestad

    [From London May] Over the last 3 years we have premiered 2 films at over 25 different festivals around the world- but we saved the best for last! Another Hole In The Head in SF was our final stop of 2022 and it was hands down our favorite. Romany and Benji were the most gracious hosts and the audience went rabid for NIGHT OF THE B******. We are so proud and honored to be the winner of the 2022 Top Feature. Can’t wait to return with our next freaky flick!

    February 2023
  • Sly Wonski

    Great festival with a unique programme, lovely design and great communication to the filmmakers. My movie F.W.M. Symphony premiered here in the U.S. and even won an audience award (Best Musical Featurette)! Thank you very much!

    February 2023
  • Monica Moehring

    I had a fantastic experience at the 2022 Another Hole in the Head Film Festival. The movies I watched inspired envy. The festival programmer actively communicated and corresponded with my team- in turn creating an environment that felt welcoming and respectful to artists. Horror people are the best people.

    February 2023
  • Timothy Moran

    Super cool festival with an amazing variety of films and filmmakers to connect with! Very honoured that my short film A PROMISE OF LIGHT not only was a part of the 2022 festival but took home the award for Best Action/Adventure Featurette. Thanks again an I look forward to being a part of another festival down the line!

    February 2023