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Kalamazoo 2025 Horror Film Festival
Experience the start of a new tradition with our inaugural HorrorCase Film & Arts Festival! This festival marks PDJ's second distinct annual celebration of cinema and arts, focusing on horror-themed films and animation.
This event will take place Friday & Saturday: October 3rd & 4th 2025 @ The Dormouse Theater
Events + Categories
Committed to fostering new talent, our event will feature a competitive screenplay contest, an open call for film submissions, and a more expansive animation showcase. Everyone is welcome to participate!
Screenwriting Contest
We're seeking original horror screenplays, with a special emphasis on fostering talent from aspiring creators! The winner will have the opportunity for hands-on experience with Prod. J Entertainment throughout the production of their winning script.
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Got a chilling story? Submit below!
Short Film Submissions
This season's film submissions will revolve around a special theme, with the selected entries also receiving a complimentary marketing package! Think of it as a 48-hour film festival (you sign up) but you can work at your own pace!
Interested? There are limited spots! Secure yours today (see deatails below).
Animation/Video Art Submissions
Got an animation? We're looking to expand on our animation showcase to a full hour! Kicking off the the event!
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Submit your horror-inspired work to be featured in our exclusive Animation Showcase.
Click HERE or Scan our QR code to enter:
Screenplay Contest + Rules
Our screenplay competition is live! The regular deadline to submit is July 31st, and the FINAL deadline is August 6th. The submission fee to enter is $25, with the fee increasing to $50 after the regular deadline has passed.
The top finalists will be announced AUGUST 11th, with the winning screenwriter being announced AUGUST 14th. The winner will be awarded a cash prize, along with having their screenplay produced into a short film to be premiered at the festival!*
*Read official rules and terms before submitting
Ready to Submit?
For OFFICIAL RULES + TERMS,
Click HERE.
Film Festival Submissions
To kick off our first Horror Festival, we're inviting filmmakers to collab with us on a promotional showcase! This year, we're diving into the 80s Horror VHS aesthetic, where you'll be encouraged to implement classic 80s horror movie elements directly into your film.
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​Register early to secure your spot! As we'll aim for all selected films to be completed by early September, allowing us ample time to fully integrate your project into our overall themed event promotion. Plus, you'll receive a complimentary custom movie poster and trailer to go with your film! Think of it as a focused creative challenge, much like a 48-hour film festival, but with the flexibility to work at your own pace!
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Put "Horror Film Submission" in the message portion of the contact form, and we'll promptly email you the full timeline and official guidelines.
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(psst...this could be you)
Featured Artists: To Be Announced
Exhibit your art! Become a Vendor with us.
Are you a talented artist looking to set up shop? Connect with an audience of horror and film fans (16+) as we invite you to showcase your horror-themed art and merchandise!
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We provide vendor spaces (approx. 6x6 ft) and chairs, (vendors will have to provide own table and display). No vendor fees, or application costs!
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Click to see full details and how to secure your spot!