In 2017, Bay Area filmmakers Steve Flavin and Sam Haynor wanted to throw a Halloween party in a movie theater. They had no idea what they were about to unleash.

The first annual SPOOKFEST premiered to a sold-out crowd at the historic Roxie Theater in San Francisco: 13 spooky short films on Friday, October 13. We had a costume contest, audience-voted OSCARE awards, and some diabolical prizes. Now, our restless souls are bound to this ritual for all eternity.

Every year, we pride ourselves on curating a diverse lineup, with a range of tones that evoke the Halloween spirit. Films can be horror, fantasy, comedy, sci-fi, or even less conventional genres.

Whether you’re a filmmaker, filmgoer, or just someone who loves the season, there’s nothing in this earthly realm quite like SpookFest. Let's get spooky!

Awards & Prizes

The audience votes for their favorite films in four categories: Best Scare, Best Humor, Best Monster, and Best in Show.

Rules & Terms

All submissions should be short films under 20 minutes.
8 Reviews
Overall Rating
Quality
Value
Communication
Hospitality
Networking
  • Michael Rich

    Super fun event! The audience was really into the movies and the curation was excellent.

    November 2024
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  • Don Swaynos

    How cool is it to have your short play in front of a sold out crowd (some of whom are in costume!) at the historic Roxie Theater? The team were great and very communicative. I love that the festival is a single, well curated shorts block! No movie fatigue, no hangovers- just a bunch of great shorts!

    October 2024
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  • David Yorke

    Such a lovely team and from the looks of it an amazing festival, I was lucky enough to get my film Safe selected but sadly could not attend, but I always felt included.

    October 2024
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  • Abby Falvo

    I was invited to screen my short film *666 in 2023. Sadly I wasn't able to attend in person, but after I received a personalized message recounting how the screening went and how the audience reacted. It may not seem like much but I really appreciated this small touch on top of everything else. The festival was incredibly organized and communicated well. I will submit any future projects I have with hopes I can attend in person in future years.

    February 2024
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  • Tyler March

    So honored to screen at SpookFest 2023 and take home Best In Show! We couldn't make the screening but Sam and Steve had great communication throughout, and went out of their way to make sure we felt like we were there - sharing pictures and details of the nights festivities. We hope to be part of future lineups and make it out to a screening!

    October 2023
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