Thank you for your interest in the S.O.S. Indie Horror Film Fest! Now in its seventh year, the SOS IHFF remains true to its calling to provide a voice and platform for filmmakers from southern Ohio and the Greater Appalachian area-but we don't stop there!
Each year we hand select short horror films from not only Ohio but around the world to screen at an iconic theater nestled in the heartland of Ohio. With special judges and guest-hosts, costume contests and awards, it's a night that patrons and filmmakers alike look forward to year after year.

Judges Awards (Shorts program)
1st prize: Best Film
2nd prize: Runner-Up
Best Director
SOS Indie Spirit Award: Given to the film that encompasses the Indie Film Spirit.
Lame Duck: Films submitted after deadline may screen but are not eligible for awards.

There will be digital certificates for top films as well and laurels for all selected films. Award winners must allow up to 60 days after the screening date to receive prizes.

You must have all rights to all media in your film.

All short films must be a minimum of 4 and maximum of 8 minutes in length including credits.

You hold S.O.S. Indie Horror Fest and hosting theater harmless from any claims of liability from screening your film.

(For Special Events) Teams must film a short 4-8 minute horror film in the state of Ohio during
the dates of September 1st through October 1st. Ideas conceived before September 1st
are permissable, yet no previous filming prior to September 1st, 2022 may be included
in the film. Filming may take place in other states, however images of Ohio landscapes/landmarks or mentions of the state of Ohio must be included in the film to prove authenticity. Sub-genres or categories of horror are at the discretion of the filmmaker. All screenings, dates, venues and awards are at the sole discretion of the festival and may be changed without immediate notice.
The SOS IHFF is not recommended for children under 17. Venue
is subject to change. All attempts will be made to notify entrants to changes made to
venues or screening times.

The S.O.S. reserves the right to use clips or audio of your submitted films in future advertising for the festival.

Overall Rating
Quality
Value
Communication
Hospitality
Networking
  • Evie Canary

    Everyone was so kind and welcoming and we had a blast!

    November 2022
  • We had so much fun at the S.O.S Spooktacular showdown. They created an amazing atmosphere and it was awesome seeing our film "For Ayizan" shown at the festival.

    October 2022
  • Jared Tipton

    Thanks for having us as a part of the festival! Hopefully next time we can attend in person! Look forward to submitting again!

    November 2020
  • Illumination Cinema

    We were very impressed with how the festival was pulled off and incredibly gracious to have been involved.

    November 2020
  • David Walton Smith

    Great festival, happy to have been a part of it!

    November 2020