Horror Fuel
Category

Film Festivals

Horror film festivals worldwide — lineups, awards and the titles that break out of the festival circuit.

819 stories

‘Brute I986’ Scores a Savage New Trailer Ahead of Festival Debut

Cinephobia Releasing has officially dropped a new trailer for Marcel Walz’s Brute 1986. The highly anticipated sequel follows last summer’s cult hit Brute 1976. It snagged the rights just ahead of the blood-soaked feature’s World Premiere at Tubi FrightFest Halloween on October 31. A Retro Evolution from Gritty Seventies Homage to Eighties Excess While Brute 1976 honored seventies classics like The Texas Chain Saw Massacre, this follow-up shifts decades. Brute 1986 embraces beloved eighties slasher tropes, heavy metal aesthetics, and practical gore. The plot follows glam metal band Leather Kobra as they shoot a music video in a deserted town. Unfortunately, the violent Birdy family resides nearby, turning the video set into a bloody nightmare. Star-Studded Cast Delivers Practical Gore and Rock Aesthetics Tokio Hotel’s Bill Kaulitz stars in the film and also contributes original music alongside Swedish band CRAZY LIXX. Returning cast members Dazelle Yvette, Sarah French, and Gigi Gustin from Brute 1976 are also joined by horror veteran

Continue reading →
Oct 23, 2026

Spoiler Free Reviews: My Love for You Is Deep But the Devil Loves Me Deeper and Man Eating Pussy (Toronto After Dark Film Festival 2026)

  My Love for You Is Deep But the Devil Loves Me Deeper (U.S., 2026) Official synopsis Alice, a young woman shattered by heartbreak after being dumped from her nebbish boyfriend Ryan, encounters the Devil and makes a deal for “all the love in the world.” Review If you have memories of encountering light-night cable TV movies involving “sex from out of nowhere” scenarios and the occasional erotic thriller or offbeat horror outing, you’ll have a decent idea of the vibe that director Casey Donahue has conjured up for My Love for You Is Deep But the Devil Loves Me Deeper. Alice (Emily Whittemore) has had it with her noncommittal ex, and somewhat unknowingly enters a Faustian pact with a stranger in a bar. Poor choice for her but a good one for viewers, as we are treated to her escalating descent into the realm of the demonic. Donahue delivers on his vision, from the opening cable TV announcement to

Continue reading →
Oct 23, 2026
"Widow's Bay" Star's New Horror Film, 'Henry's Ebb,' Kicks Off Festival Tour

“Widow’s Bay” Star’s New Horror Film, ‘Henry’s Ebb,’ Kicks Off Festival Tour

Apple TV’s hit series “Widow’s Bay” is one of the year’s biggest streaming successes, taking home an impressive 14 Emmys. The fun horror show has captivated both audiences and critics with its tale of otherworldly forces targeting an island community. Fortunately, fans can celebrate: Apple TV has officially confirmed a second season. Star Kingston Rumi Southwick Tackles A Haunting New Feature As viewers eagerly await new episodes, key cast members are expanding their horizons with exciting new projects. Star Kingston Rumi Southwick will headline the upcoming film Henry’s Ebb. The project marks writer and director Thomas Mendolia’s feature directorial debut. The film’s impressive ensemble also includes Banks Repeta (The Black Phone), Ashley Shelton, Will Holland, Rebecca Koon, and Austin Willard. A captivating first-look image has already been released to generate early buzz among genre fans. A Dark Coming-of-Age Tale Driven by Psychological Dread The story follows young Henry, who relies heavily on his fearless companion named Ebb. However, Ebb is actually

Continue reading →
Oct 21, 2026
Ahead of Screamfest, the New 'dATE' Trailer Teases That Dating Can Be Deadly

Ahead of Screamfest, the New ‘dATE’ Trailer Teases That Dating Can Be Deadly

Let’s be honest, dating sucks between getting catfished, losers, and psychos. It’s scary. Now, a new horror movie, dATE, takes the struggle to terrifying new heights. Get ready for an absolute bloodbath on the dating scene! dATE has released its trailer and has officially scored a coveted spot as an Official Selection at Screamfest 2026. Written and directed by Scott Milam, this seductive nightmare blends high-fashion glamour with pure terror. And genre fans are already buzzing about this wildly inventive, pulse-pounding premise! Glamour by Day, Murder by Night The story follows fashion model Lydia Carver as she navigates her seemingly perfect life. She spends her days posing in glamorous photoshoots and her nights diving into the dating pool. However, maintaining her flawless appearance requires satisfying a truly ravenous appetite! Unsuspecting suitors quickly discover that dating Lydia comes with a deadly, blood-soaked price tag. A Powerhouse Genre Cast In addition to its terrifying setup, dATE boasts an unbelievable ensemble of fan-favorite

Continue reading →
Oct 21, 2026
Spoiler-Free Reviews: When She Sings and Moryow (Dark Nights Film Fest)

Spoiler-Free Reviews: When She Sings and Moryow (Dark Nights Film Fest)

When She Sings (U.K., 2026) Official synopsis In a dreary, British seaside town, a talented artist is haunted by a sinister mermaid, and terrorized by a coven of strange locals.  Review When She Sings is a classic example of fine folk horror cinema. Director Paul Holbrook invests his short film with a sense of dread throughout as artist Fay Corr (Laura Bayston, who cowrote the screenplay with Holbrook) is harassed by local townsfolk speaking in mysterious short bursts as she grieves over the death of her sister. Cinematographer James Oldham wonderfully captures the beauty of the coastal setting and the bleakness of Fay’s world, with Composers Hannah Cartwright and Ross Tones aiding greatly with the short’s mood.     Moryow (U.K., 2026) Official synopsis A recovering addict, desperate to escape her past, finds herself on a cursed fishing boat headed into a Lovecraftian nightmare where the depths of the ocean feed on her darkest sins.  Review Writer/director Ted Wilkes weaves

Continue reading →
Oct 20, 2026
The First Look at 'The Relic: Dragon' Teases Viking Lore and Cosmic Horrors

The First Look at ‘The Relic: Dragon’ Teases Viking Lore and Cosmic Horrors

A new film, The Relic: Dragon, blends cosmic horror, Viking mythology, and classic treasure hunting. Currently making its festival rounds, the film brings ancient horrors to life through two new teaser trailers. The Story The film emphasizes practical effects alongside ambitious world-building and the history and lore of the Vikings. The story centers on two estranged sisters who find themselves entangled in a dangerous mystery. They discover a cursed Viking treasure and a lost manuscript tied to conquistador Francisco Coronado. As in any horror film, the ancient relic threatens to unleash unimaginable cosmic terror on the world. Chaotic Production Battles Against Extreme Odds The chaotic story behind the camera rivals the movie itself. The filmmakers completed this feature for roughly $400K. As a result, the low-budget production faced brutal weather and gale-force winds. A severe spider infestation and stolen props also plagued the team throughout shooting. Moreover, lead actress Taylor Bini quit her job to star as Echo. The daring

Continue reading →
Oct 19, 2026
Spoiler Free Reviews: Matapanki, The Thing Inside Her, and Paper Cuts (Toronto After Dark Film Festival 2026)

Spoiler Free Reviews: Matapanki, The Thing Inside Her, and Paper Cuts (Toronto After Dark Film Festival 2026)

Matapanki (Chile, 2026) Official synopsis A punk kid gets superpowers from alcohol and tries to reshape society, but a violent error sparks global tensions with him at the center.  Review “Punk’s not dead!” goes the battle cry, and writer/director Diego Fuentes follows that spirit with his action comedy/fantasy feature Matapanki. Punk rock fan Ricardo (Ramón Gálvez) accidentally discovers a bottle of the titular fictitious drink and finds that ingesting the beverage gives him superpowers. With nods to Spider-Man, the film takes him on an origin-story journey where he is reluctant to use his powers despite his friends’ encouragement. Naturally, nefarious forces are at work, which Fuentes uses to skewer local and international political figures and movements. He also uses colorful animation and drawing effects to complement Cinematographer Vicente Correa’s impressive black-and-white work. Fueled with punk soul, a driving soundtrack, and all-in performances, Matapanki is a unique slice of genre-cinema fare.     The Thing Inside Her (Canada, 2026) Official synopsis After removing

Continue reading →
Oct 19, 2026
Big Hair and Metal Meet Horror in the New 'Brute 1986' Trailer

Big Hair and Metal Meet Horror in the New ‘Brute 1986’ Trailer

Cinephobia Releasing has officially acquired North American and UK distribution rights to Marcel Walz’s Brute 1986. The highly anticipated sequel follows last summer’s cult hit Brute 1976. It snagged the rights just ahead of the blood-soaked feature’s World Premiere at Tubi FrightFest Halloween on October 31. A Retro Evolution from Gritty Seventies Homage to Eighties Excess While Brute 1976 honored seventies classics like The Texas Chain Saw Massacre, this follow-up shifts decades. Brute 1986 embraces beloved eighties slasher tropes, heavy metal aesthetics, and practical gore. The plot follows glam metal band Leather Kobra as they shoot a music video in a deserted town. Unfortunately, the violent Birdy family resides nearby, turning the video set into a bloody nightmare. Star-Studded Cast Delivers Practical Gore and Rock Aesthetics Tokio Hotel’s Bill Kaulitz stars in the film and also contributes original music alongside Swedish band CRAZY LIXX. Returning cast members Dazelle Yvette, Sarah French, and Gigi Gustin from Brute 1976 are also joined

Continue reading →
Oct 16, 2026
The Screamfest Film Festival Announces Its 2026 Winners

The Screamfest Film Festival Announces Its 2026 Winners

The Screamfest Horror Film Festival, the largest horror festival in the United States, officially announced its 2026 award winners. The premier event took place from October 6 through October 15 at Hollywood’s famous TCL Chinese Theater. The festival wrapped up with Briarcliff Entertainment’s festive premiere of Christmas at the Kringles. Directed by Kevin Lewis, the closing film featured stars Ron Livingston, Rachel Bilson, and Rob Riggle. Australian Thriller Kick On Dominates Main Categories Australia’s high-octane feature Kick On emerged as the festival’s biggest winner, taking home the coveted Best Picture award. Director Nick Kozakis also earned top honors for Best Director and Best Make-Up. The intense film captivated judges with its visceral storytelling and exceptional practical effects. Standout Acting and Technical Achievements Recognized Meanwhile, individual artistic achievements shone brightly across multiple international features throughout the ten-day celebration. Javier Botet secured Best Actor for Gummy, while Laura Im won Best Actress for Valley View Motel. Santiago Otoya claimed Best Cinematography for

Continue reading →
Oct 16, 2026
Spoiler Free Reviews: Insecta and Bonded (Screamfest 2026)

Spoiler Free Reviews: Insecta and Bonded (Screamfest 2026)

Insecta (Uruguay, 2026) Official synopsis A horror writer returns to an isolated estate to say goodbye to her dying father, only to suspect that the monstrous insect she imagined as a child may have been real all along.   Review With Insecta, director Martín Florio crafts a highly entertaining chiller that combines creature feature and gothic horror elements, with engaging family drama for good measure. Renowned horror writer Mercedes (Mayra Hermosillo) returns to her childhood home to visit her estranged elderly father Jaime (Luis Felipe Tovar), who is close to death. He has been taken care of as of late by Mercedes’ stepsister Belen (Rocío De La Mañana), who alternates between seeming pleased and unwelcoming about Mercedes’ presence. Mercedes has nightmares about a traumatic incident from her childhood about her brother’s death and about an oversized insect that haunted him, along with sexual fantasies about Belen. Much intrigue ensues, and Florio, working from a screenplay that he cowrote with Leonel D’Agostino

Continue reading →
Oct 15, 2026

More from Film Festivals

‘Brute I986’ Scores a Savage New Trailer Ahead of Festival Debut

Cinephobia Releasing has officially dropped a new trailer for Marcel Walz’s Brute 1986. The highly anticipated sequel follows last summer’s cult hit Brute 1976. It snagged the rights just ahead of the blood-soaked feature’s World Premiere at Tubi FrightFest Halloween on October 31. A Retro Evolution from Gritty Seventies Homage to Eighties Excess While Brute 1976 honored seventies classics like The Texas Chain Saw Massacre, this follow-up shifts decades. Brute 1986 embraces beloved eighties slasher tropes, heavy metal aesthetics, and practical gore. The plot follows glam metal band Leather Kobra as they shoot a music video in a deserted town. Unfortunately, the violent Birdy family resides nearby, turning the video set into a bloody nightmare. Star-Studded Cast Delivers Practical Gore and Rock Aesthetics Tokio Hotel’s Bill Kaulitz stars in the film and also contributes original music alongside Swedish band CRAZY LIXX. Returning cast members Dazelle Yvette, Sarah French, and Gigi Gustin from Brute 1976 are also joined by horror veteran

Continue reading →
Oct 23, 2026

Spoiler Free Reviews: My Love for You Is Deep But the Devil Loves Me Deeper and Man Eating Pussy (Toronto After Dark Film Festival 2026)

  My Love for You Is Deep But the Devil Loves Me Deeper (U.S., 2026) Official synopsis Alice, a young woman shattered by heartbreak after being dumped from her nebbish boyfriend Ryan, encounters the Devil and makes a deal for “all the love in the world.” Review If you have memories of encountering light-night cable TV movies involving “sex from out of nowhere” scenarios and the occasional erotic thriller or offbeat horror outing, you’ll have a decent idea of the vibe that director Casey Donahue has conjured up for My Love for You Is Deep But the Devil Loves Me Deeper. Alice (Emily Whittemore) has had it with her noncommittal ex, and somewhat unknowingly enters a Faustian pact with a stranger in a bar. Poor choice for her but a good one for viewers, as we are treated to her escalating descent into the realm of the demonic. Donahue delivers on his vision, from the opening cable TV announcement to

Continue reading →
Oct 23, 2026
"Widow's Bay" Star's New Horror Film, 'Henry's Ebb,' Kicks Off Festival Tour

“Widow’s Bay” Star’s New Horror Film, ‘Henry’s Ebb,’ Kicks Off Festival Tour

Apple TV’s hit series “Widow’s Bay” is one of the year’s biggest streaming successes, taking home an impressive 14 Emmys. The fun horror show has captivated both audiences and critics with its tale of otherworldly forces targeting an island community. Fortunately, fans can celebrate: Apple TV has officially confirmed a second season. Star Kingston Rumi Southwick Tackles A Haunting New Feature As viewers eagerly await new episodes, key cast members are expanding their horizons with exciting new projects. Star Kingston Rumi Southwick will headline the upcoming film Henry’s Ebb. The project marks writer and director Thomas Mendolia’s feature directorial debut. The film’s impressive ensemble also includes Banks Repeta (The Black Phone), Ashley Shelton, Will Holland, Rebecca Koon, and Austin Willard. A captivating first-look image has already been released to generate early buzz among genre fans. A Dark Coming-of-Age Tale Driven by Psychological Dread The story follows young Henry, who relies heavily on his fearless companion named Ebb. However, Ebb is actually

Continue reading →
Oct 21, 2026
Ahead of Screamfest, the New 'dATE' Trailer Teases That Dating Can Be Deadly

Ahead of Screamfest, the New ‘dATE’ Trailer Teases That Dating Can Be Deadly

Let’s be honest, dating sucks between getting catfished, losers, and psychos. It’s scary. Now, a new horror movie, dATE, takes the struggle to terrifying new heights. Get ready for an absolute bloodbath on the dating scene! dATE has released its trailer and has officially scored a coveted spot as an Official Selection at Screamfest 2026. Written and directed by Scott Milam, this seductive nightmare blends high-fashion glamour with pure terror. And genre fans are already buzzing about this wildly inventive, pulse-pounding premise! Glamour by Day, Murder by Night The story follows fashion model Lydia Carver as she navigates her seemingly perfect life. She spends her days posing in glamorous photoshoots and her nights diving into the dating pool. However, maintaining her flawless appearance requires satisfying a truly ravenous appetite! Unsuspecting suitors quickly discover that dating Lydia comes with a deadly, blood-soaked price tag. A Powerhouse Genre Cast In addition to its terrifying setup, dATE boasts an unbelievable ensemble of fan-favorite

Continue reading →
Oct 21, 2026
Spoiler-Free Reviews: When She Sings and Moryow (Dark Nights Film Fest)

Spoiler-Free Reviews: When She Sings and Moryow (Dark Nights Film Fest)

When She Sings (U.K., 2026) Official synopsis In a dreary, British seaside town, a talented artist is haunted by a sinister mermaid, and terrorized by a coven of strange locals.  Review When She Sings is a classic example of fine folk horror cinema. Director Paul Holbrook invests his short film with a sense of dread throughout as artist Fay Corr (Laura Bayston, who cowrote the screenplay with Holbrook) is harassed by local townsfolk speaking in mysterious short bursts as she grieves over the death of her sister. Cinematographer James Oldham wonderfully captures the beauty of the coastal setting and the bleakness of Fay’s world, with Composers Hannah Cartwright and Ross Tones aiding greatly with the short’s mood.     Moryow (U.K., 2026) Official synopsis A recovering addict, desperate to escape her past, finds herself on a cursed fishing boat headed into a Lovecraftian nightmare where the depths of the ocean feed on her darkest sins.  Review Writer/director Ted Wilkes weaves

Continue reading →
Oct 20, 2026
The First Look at 'The Relic: Dragon' Teases Viking Lore and Cosmic Horrors

The First Look at ‘The Relic: Dragon’ Teases Viking Lore and Cosmic Horrors

A new film, The Relic: Dragon, blends cosmic horror, Viking mythology, and classic treasure hunting. Currently making its festival rounds, the film brings ancient horrors to life through two new teaser trailers. The Story The film emphasizes practical effects alongside ambitious world-building and the history and lore of the Vikings. The story centers on two estranged sisters who find themselves entangled in a dangerous mystery. They discover a cursed Viking treasure and a lost manuscript tied to conquistador Francisco Coronado. As in any horror film, the ancient relic threatens to unleash unimaginable cosmic terror on the world. Chaotic Production Battles Against Extreme Odds The chaotic story behind the camera rivals the movie itself. The filmmakers completed this feature for roughly $400K. As a result, the low-budget production faced brutal weather and gale-force winds. A severe spider infestation and stolen props also plagued the team throughout shooting. Moreover, lead actress Taylor Bini quit her job to star as Echo. The daring

Continue reading →
Oct 19, 2026
Spoiler Free Reviews: Matapanki, The Thing Inside Her, and Paper Cuts (Toronto After Dark Film Festival 2026)

Spoiler Free Reviews: Matapanki, The Thing Inside Her, and Paper Cuts (Toronto After Dark Film Festival 2026)

Matapanki (Chile, 2026) Official synopsis A punk kid gets superpowers from alcohol and tries to reshape society, but a violent error sparks global tensions with him at the center.  Review “Punk’s not dead!” goes the battle cry, and writer/director Diego Fuentes follows that spirit with his action comedy/fantasy feature Matapanki. Punk rock fan Ricardo (Ramón Gálvez) accidentally discovers a bottle of the titular fictitious drink and finds that ingesting the beverage gives him superpowers. With nods to Spider-Man, the film takes him on an origin-story journey where he is reluctant to use his powers despite his friends’ encouragement. Naturally, nefarious forces are at work, which Fuentes uses to skewer local and international political figures and movements. He also uses colorful animation and drawing effects to complement Cinematographer Vicente Correa’s impressive black-and-white work. Fueled with punk soul, a driving soundtrack, and all-in performances, Matapanki is a unique slice of genre-cinema fare.     The Thing Inside Her (Canada, 2026) Official synopsis After removing

Continue reading →
Oct 19, 2026
Big Hair and Metal Meet Horror in the New 'Brute 1986' Trailer

Big Hair and Metal Meet Horror in the New ‘Brute 1986’ Trailer

Cinephobia Releasing has officially acquired North American and UK distribution rights to Marcel Walz’s Brute 1986. The highly anticipated sequel follows last summer’s cult hit Brute 1976. It snagged the rights just ahead of the blood-soaked feature’s World Premiere at Tubi FrightFest Halloween on October 31. A Retro Evolution from Gritty Seventies Homage to Eighties Excess While Brute 1976 honored seventies classics like The Texas Chain Saw Massacre, this follow-up shifts decades. Brute 1986 embraces beloved eighties slasher tropes, heavy metal aesthetics, and practical gore. The plot follows glam metal band Leather Kobra as they shoot a music video in a deserted town. Unfortunately, the violent Birdy family resides nearby, turning the video set into a bloody nightmare. Star-Studded Cast Delivers Practical Gore and Rock Aesthetics Tokio Hotel’s Bill Kaulitz stars in the film and also contributes original music alongside Swedish band CRAZY LIXX. Returning cast members Dazelle Yvette, Sarah French, and Gigi Gustin from Brute 1976 are also joined

Continue reading →
Oct 16, 2026
The Screamfest Film Festival Announces Its 2026 Winners

The Screamfest Film Festival Announces Its 2026 Winners

The Screamfest Horror Film Festival, the largest horror festival in the United States, officially announced its 2026 award winners. The premier event took place from October 6 through October 15 at Hollywood’s famous TCL Chinese Theater. The festival wrapped up with Briarcliff Entertainment’s festive premiere of Christmas at the Kringles. Directed by Kevin Lewis, the closing film featured stars Ron Livingston, Rachel Bilson, and Rob Riggle. Australian Thriller Kick On Dominates Main Categories Australia’s high-octane feature Kick On emerged as the festival’s biggest winner, taking home the coveted Best Picture award. Director Nick Kozakis also earned top honors for Best Director and Best Make-Up. The intense film captivated judges with its visceral storytelling and exceptional practical effects. Standout Acting and Technical Achievements Recognized Meanwhile, individual artistic achievements shone brightly across multiple international features throughout the ten-day celebration. Javier Botet secured Best Actor for Gummy, while Laura Im won Best Actress for Valley View Motel. Santiago Otoya claimed Best Cinematography for

Continue reading →
Oct 16, 2026
Spoiler Free Reviews: Insecta and Bonded (Screamfest 2026)

Spoiler Free Reviews: Insecta and Bonded (Screamfest 2026)

Insecta (Uruguay, 2026) Official synopsis A horror writer returns to an isolated estate to say goodbye to her dying father, only to suspect that the monstrous insect she imagined as a child may have been real all along.   Review With Insecta, director Martín Florio crafts a highly entertaining chiller that combines creature feature and gothic horror elements, with engaging family drama for good measure. Renowned horror writer Mercedes (Mayra Hermosillo) returns to her childhood home to visit her estranged elderly father Jaime (Luis Felipe Tovar), who is close to death. He has been taken care of as of late by Mercedes’ stepsister Belen (Rocío De La Mañana), who alternates between seeming pleased and unwelcoming about Mercedes’ presence. Mercedes has nightmares about a traumatic incident from her childhood about her brother’s death and about an oversized insect that haunted him, along with sexual fantasies about Belen. Much intrigue ensues, and Florio, working from a screenplay that he cowrote with Leonel D’Agostino

Continue reading →
Oct 15, 2026