We are now accepting submissions for 2012!
Dark Carnival accepts shorts, features, and trailers. We’re looking for unique horror, dark fantasy, and sci-fi and every sub-genre in between.
Dark Carnival has received films from more than two dozen countries from all over the planet, and from almost every state in the US. In a relatively short time, we have gained a reputation as a festival that values indie filmmakers, and that loves the horror genre as something much more than a business niche or a way to sell merchandise.
As a result we’ve gained the attention of local, regional, and national publications, as well as a variety of internationally recognized sponsors, including HorrorHound Magazine, Rue Morgue Magazine, Avid, and Final Draft.
Our festival submission fees are among the lowest anywhere, while at the same time, we work hard to make sure we give a better return on that investment than just about any other festival. For more on why you should submit your film or screenplay to Dark Carnival, visit our FILMMAKER FAQ.
GUIDELINES:
Film Submissions
1. The preferred format for exhibition is DVD. We can also accommodate BluRay, digital files, VHS, and possibly 35mm film, however please contact us before submitting in those formats. (DVDs and BluRays must be Region 0 or 1 and NTSC format.)
2. All films should have been produced after January 2009.
3. Foreign films must be dubbed in English or presented in their original language with English language subtitles.
4. You must complete an online entry form for each film you submit.
5. Each film must be on a separate DVD.
6. Do not send a film copy with “FOR SCREENING PURPOSES ONLY” protectors. If your film is selected, your preview submission copy will be used for exhibition screening. Also, please do not send us your master copy. See more about this in our FILMMAKER FAQ.
How to submit
Submissions must be completed online. Send us a clearly labeled DVD for review, per the instructions on the submission form. Don’t forget to include your name, film title, total run time, and contact information on all submitted materials. Also, if you have a trailer, send us the link or the DVD. (If you film is selected, we’ll include your trailer on our site.)
Frequently Asked Questions
Want to know what we look for in a movie? Curious about where your submission fees go, or what you get in return? Ever wonder how films are judged for selection and awards?
We’ve covered all that and more in our FILMMAKER FAQ.
Agreements
Submission of your work confirms that the Dark Carnival Film Festival has permission to exhibit your film(s) during the Festival and/or at any other Festival event. Submission of a work implies that the Festival can employ moving image excerpts and reproduce stills for exhibition promotion. Credit will be given to any filmmaker, screenwriter and/or game developer if such material is used in Festival promotion. Original copyright holder retains all rights to their work.
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