The Hollow: Paracon & Film Fest, sponsored by Paraflixx Paranormal+, is in its second year and is seeking films in the genre of paranormal, supernatural, cryptid, horror, or documentary. Run times can be anywhere from one minute to 30 minutes in length. Films will be screened on 8/22/26 in the Campus Center Theater at Stockton University.

Join a gathering of paranormal investigators, filmmakers, artists, scholars, and those who've always felt like outsiders, all coming together to probe the unknown. The event is about genuine conversation, strange tales, unsettling inquiries, and creative endeavors that resonate long after the event concludes.

We celebrate the bizarre, not the polished, commercialized version, but the authentic weirdness. The kind that thrives in the shadows. The kind that dares to ask the difficult questions. The kind that welcomes those who have always felt a little out of place. Skeptics sit beside believers. Filmmakers sit beside investigators. First-timers sit beside veterans. Everyone belongs here.

We're deliberately open to all kinds of "weirdness"...beliefs, identities, aesthetics, and creative methods…as long as they're grounded in respect. Come as you are. Bring the unusual, the unsettling, the inquisitive, the undefinable. If you've ever felt like your work or your voice didn't quite belong, The Hollow was created with you in mind.

Information, FAQ’s and more can be found at https://www.ninelivesparanormal.com/thehollow

Awards & Prizes

Award Categories:
• Best Paranormal Short Film
• Best Paranormal Documentary
• Best Paranormal Student Film
• Best Paranormal Short Film Script

All filmmakers whose works were selected will be invited to participate in a Q&A at the conclusion of their screening block.

Rules & Terms

All submitted films must be paranormal-themed (supernatural, cryptid, UFO, psychic, occult, folklore, paranormal investigations, etc.).

Paranormal Short Films include scripted fiction, narrative music videos, experimental narratives, and fictional found-footage works.

Paranormal Documentary Films include investigations, interviews, historical cases, and personal experiences.

Student films can be a short film or documentary film created during their time at college.

Paranormal Short Film Screenplays should explore paranormal themes through compelling storytelling, atmosphere, and imaginative use of the unknown in 30 pages or less.

Films must be submitted through FilmFreeway, in English or with English subtitles, and there are no premiere requirements. Submission fees are non-refundable. All submissions are reviewed by the festival’s screening committee, and notification of selection will be sent via email. All festival decisions are final.

By submitting a film, filmmakers grant the festival a non-exclusive right to screen the work during the festival dates and to use excerpts (up to 60 seconds), stills, and titles for promotional purposes related to the festival. Filmmakers retain full ownership of their work. Accepted films must provide a high-quality digital screening file by the stated deadline, and the festival is not responsible for technical issues resulting from improperly formatted materials. Films are judged using category-specific criteria, and judges’ decisions are final. The festival reserves the right to withhold awards if minimum standards are not met.

Paranormal Narrative Films are judged on:
• Concept, Originality, and Use of the Paranormal
• Storytelling & Structure
• Atmosphere & Tone
• Performances
• Technical Craft
• Overall Impact

Paranormal Documentary Films are judged on:
• Subject & Relevance
• Narrative Structure
• Interview/Evidence Presentation
• Technical Quality
• Overall Impact

Paranormal Short Film Screenplays are judged on:
• Concept, Originality, and Use of the Paranormal
• Storytelling & Structure
• Atmosphere & Tone
• Character & Dialogue
• Overall Impact

The festival is not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged materials. Filmmakers agree to conduct themselves professionally and acknowledge that harassment or disruptive behavior may result in removal from the event. By submitting a film, filmmakers agree to indemnify and hold harmless the festival, its organizers, partners, and venue from any claims arising from the submission or exhibition of their work. Filmmaker confirms they have obtained all necessary rights and clearances, including music, archival footage, and likeness rights. Submission of a film constitutes acceptance of all festival rules and terms.
2 Reviews
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  • Jim Zounis

    It was such a great honor to have our short selected to participate in 'The Hollow Paranormal Film Festival'. Thank you all so much.

    October 2025
    Helpful
  • Leonardo Valenti

    Thanks to Nine Lives Paranormal for creating this festival! Great communication, extremely nice people, I'm wishing all the best to this young but promising event.

    October 2025
    Helpful