Welcome to a world where the unsettling and the extraordinary come together!

Sinister is the most anticipated event for all lovers of horror. It is a festival that will immerse you in a universe of fear and excitement, where the paranormal and the macabre intertwine with art and imagination.

Why is Sinister Unique?

Sinister is much more than a horror film festival. It is an international event that celebrates creativity, imagination, and mastery in the genre of horror. Here, fear becomes a form of art, and the most chilling stories come to life on the big screen.

Why Should You Participate?

1. Celebration of Horror Cinema: At Sinister, we celebrate horror cinema in its fullest expression. Renowned international filmmakers and talented emerging filmmakers from around the world present their most terrifying works. Our carefully selected program includes both the most impactful new releases and independent gems that will send shivers down your spine.

2. Screenwriting Contest: We value not only the visuals but also the words that breathe life into our nightmares. Our screenwriting contest rewards the most creative and twisted minds that weave stories that will be etched in your memory. Do you have a terrifying story to tell? Sinister is your platform to shine.

3. Music Contest: Music is the heartbeat of horror. We recognize the importance of music in creating chilling atmospheres. Our music contest honors the most sinister composers and musicians.

4. Photography Contest: The power of a haunting image is undeniable. Our photography contest captures the beauty of horror in pictures. From dark landscapes to chilling portraits, the most talented photographers find their place in our festival.

Sinister is where horror becomes art, where nightmares are projected on the big screen, and where creativity is celebrated in its purest form. Don't miss the opportunity to experience the unique Sinister!

Awards & Prizes

In Sinister, recognizing excellence and creativity is fundamental. Our awards and prizes section is the heart of the festival, where we celebrate and honor talented individuals who have contributed to the world of horror cinema and creativity.

Sinister Award – The Ultimate Accolade

The Sinister Award is the pinnacle of recognition at our festival. This prestigious award is presented to the work that has stood out as the best in its category. It symbolizes excellence in the realms of horror cinema and creativity, and its recipient becomes an icon of the genre.

Recognitions in Various Categories

Our list of accolades spans a wide range of categories, from feature-length films to short films, screenplays, music, and photography. Each of these categories is evaluated by experts and dedicated judges who seek innovation, originality, and skill in the horror genre. Awardees in these categories stand out as leaders in their respective fields.

Awards from Our Sponsors

In addition to our main awards, we collaborate with generous sponsors who also grant special prizes. These awards serve as an additional recognition of the talent and dedication of those participating in Sinister. The prizes from our sponsors add diversity and excitement to our event, highlighting the value they bring to the world of horror cinema and creativity.

Category: Feature-Length Horror Films

1. Best Horror Film – Sinister Award
2. Best Horror Director – Sinister Vision Award
3. Best Actor in a Horror Film – Eerie Performance Award
4. Best Actress in a Horror Film – Macabre Acting Award
5. Best Horror Screenplay – Master of Fear Award
6. Best Cinematography in a Horror Film – Spectral Images Award
7. Best Horror Film Score – Symphony of Nightmares Award
8. Best Makeup in a Horror Film - Ghastly Transformations Award
9. Best Costume Design in a Horror Film - Sinister Attire Award
10. Best Special Effects in a Horror Film - Nightmarish Realism Award
11. Best Art Direction in a Horror Film - Haunting Environments Award

Category: Short Horror Films

1. Best Short Horror Film – Sinister Award
2. Best Short Horror Director – Maestro of Horror Award
3. Best Actor in a Short Horror Film – Intense Performance Award
4. Best Actress in a Short Horror Film – Impactful Acting Award
5. Best Short Horror Screenplay – Minister of Darkness Award
6. Best Short Horror Cinematography – Chilling Focus Award
7. Best Short Horror Film Score – Macabre Chords Award
8. Best Makeup in a Short Horror Film - Eerie Transformations Award
9. Best Costume Design in a Short Horror Film - Sinister Wardrobe Award
10. Best Special Effects in a Short Horror Film - Phantasmagoric Feats Award
11. Best Art Direction in a Short Horror Film - Dreadful Décor Award

Category: Screenwriting Contest

1. Best Horror Screenplay – Pen of Nightmares Award
2. Best Short Horror Screenplay – Words of Horror Award
3. Best Sci-Fi and Horror Screenplay – Fantasy Fusion Award
4. Best Suspense Screenplay – Literary Tension Award

Category: Music Contest

1. Best Original Horror Composition – Melody of Darkness Award
2. Best Original Horror Song – Sinister Melody Award
3. Best Suspenseful Composition – Tension and Fear Award

Category: Photography Contest

1. Best Horror Photography – Chilling Capture Award
2. Best Horror Portrait – Macabre Face Award
3. Best Horror Landscape – Tenebrous Setting Award
4. Best Black and White Photography – Shadow and Light Award

Unifying the passion for horror and creativity, the awards and prizes at Sinister are a grand tribute to those who dare to explore the darkest corners of imagination and share their visions with the world. Join us and celebrate the art of fear in its purest form!

Rules & Terms

Introduction:

Welcome to Sinister, the International Horror and Creativity Festival. These rules and terms are designed to ensure a fair, safe, and enjoyable experience for all participants. By entering any of our competitions or events, you agree to abide by the following rules and terms.

Eligibility:

1. Sinister is open to filmmakers, screenwriters, musicians, photographers, and creatives of all levels and backgrounds. There are no age restrictions, and international submissions are welcome.

Submission Guidelines:

2. All submissions must be in English or include English subtitles or translations.

3. Each entry should adhere to its respective category guidelines, such as feature-length films, short films, screenplays, music, or photography. Ensure that your entry meets the specified format and length requirements.

Originality:

4. All entries must be the original work of the entrant, and they should not infringe on any copyrights or trademarks. Plagiarism and unauthorized use of third-party content are strictly prohibited.

Multiple Submissions:

5. Participants are allowed to submit multiple entries in different categories. Each entry will require a separate submission fee.

Entry Fees:

6. There is an entry fee for each submission, which helps support the festival's operations and awards. The fee structure may vary depending on the category and deadlines.

Submission Deadline:

7. Submissions must be received by the specified deadline. Late entries may not be considered.

Screening Rights:

8. Entrants grant Sinister the right to screen and promote their submissions during the festival. Sinister may also use submitted content for promotional purposes, including trailers, posters, and online content.

Judging and Awards:

9. Entries will be evaluated by a panel of qualified judges, and winners will be announced at the festival. The decisions of the judges are final.

Acceptance and Notification:

10. Acceptance notifications will be sent to participants via email. If your submission is accepted, you will receive further instructions and details regarding the festival.

Travel and Accommodation:

11. Participants are responsible for their own travel and accommodation arrangements during the festival.

Code of Conduct:

12. Sinister is committed to maintaining a respectful, inclusive, and harassment-free environment. Any form of harassment, discrimination, or disruptive behavior will not be tolerated.

Liability:

13. Sinister and its affiliates are not responsible for any loss, damage, or theft of submitted materials, or for any personal injuries or accidents that may occur during the festival.

Changes and Updates:

14. Sinister reserves the right to make changes to the rules and terms, as well as to the festival schedule, at any time. Participants will be informed of any updates as they occur.

By submitting your work to Sinister, you acknowledge that you have read, understood, and agreed to these Rules and Terms. We look forward to celebrating your creative contributions to the world of horror and imagination at Sinister!