Austin, TX — Horror cinema takes center stage at Horror for the Holidays Expo with the return of the Blood Over Texas Film Fest, bringing a weekend of horror shorts, special screenings, panels, Q&As, filmmaker events and more to horror fans and independent filmmakers.

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A FESTIVAL WITHIN THE EXPO

As part of the Horror for the Holidays Expo, the Blood Over Texas Film Fest adds a dedicated cinematic experience to a weekend already filled with a plethora of horror attractions. From a terrifying short film discovered for the first time to an unforgettable celebrity Q&A, a conversation with independent filmmakers or the excitement of the awards ceremony, the 2nd annual Blood Over Texas Film Fest offers something for anyone who loves horror — and for those who want to be part of the community behind it.

 

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HORROR SHORTS & AWARDS

The Film Fest puts the spotlight on independent horror filmmakers with a curated program of horror short films spanning the genre — from slashers and supernatural scares to horror comedies and everything in between. Films are presented in screening blocks throughout Horror for the Holidays, giving audiences a chance to discover new filmmakers and cheer on their favorites.

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But these aren't just screenings—filmmakers are competing for awards and recognition! Films are eligible for awards including Best Film, Best Director, Best Actor, Best Actress and Best Cinematography, with additional honors for Best SFX/Makeup, Best Score, Best Screenplay and Wild Card. Winners will be announced during the Fest's Award Showcase on the final day of the event. The deadline for horror short submissions is October, 15th.  

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SPECIAL SCREENINGS & CELEBRITY EVENTS

Along with the horror shorts competition, the festival also features several special screenings — celebrating some big horror movie anniversaries — and appearances from notable horror guests. The screenings, celebrity panels and Q&As will give fans the chance to hear behind-the-scenes stories, filmmaking experiences and personal perspectives from some of horror's most recognizable names.

 

• Facing Freddy: The Ladies of Nightmare On Elm Street (featuring Heather Langenkamp and Lisa Wilcox)

• One-on-One with Kelli Maroney

• Unmasking The Creeper: The Making of a Iconic Monster (featuring Jonathan Breck and Brian Penikas)

• The Trick or Treat "Saturday Fright Showcase:" Live comedy and live commentary movie night with Marc Price

 

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FILMMAKER EVENTS

The Film Fest also brings together several local filmmakers together for the "Less is Gore: The Art of the Horror Short" panel. Featuring award winning filmmakers, Cliff Bogart, Kyle Bogart, Chris McInroy and Kris Phipps of Garth Manor studio, the panel offers insight into the creative and practical realities of making a successful horror short. Think making a horror short is easier than making a feature? Think again!

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In addition, filmmakers can mingle and talk film at the Filmmaker Meetups, creating an informal environment where filmmakers, actors, creators and genre enthusiasts can connect, exchange ideas and build relationships within the horror community.

 

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MORE THAN A FILM FEST

For filmmakers, the Blood Over Texas Film Fest is more than a place to screen a short — it’s an opportunity to immerse themselves in the entire Horror for the Holidays Expo experience. Filmmakers can connect with fellow creators and horror fans, attend screenings, panels and Q&As, meet special guests, explore the vendor market, enjoy cosplay and creatures, participate in filmmaker events and celebrate alongside the horror community. Whether they’re showcasing their work, networking with other filmmakers or simply enjoying the weekend, Horror for the Holidays Expo gives creators a chance to be part of the larger celebration of all things horror.