Brooklyn Horror Film Festival 2024: A Cinematic Feast for Horror Enthusiasts
The Brooklyn Horror Film Festival (BHFF) is back with a spine-chilling lineup for its 2024 edition, running from October 17-24. This year’s festival promises a thrilling array of films, all set to be screened at Nitehawk Cinema’s Williamsburg and Prospect Park locations. Let’s dive into the highlights and what makes this year’s festival a must-attend for horror aficionados.
Opening night: ‘Dead Mail’ sets the tone
The festival kicks off with the New York premiere of Joe DeBoer and Kyle McConaghy’s crime thriller, Dead Mail. This film follows a blood-stained note that arrives at a county post office, leading its experienced “dead letter” mailroom clerk and his associates down a perilous path to discover its origins. Meanwhile, an entrepreneurial synthesizer engineer enters a precarious partnership with an overbearing investor. The film’s retro aesthetic and indie horror-synth vibe make it a standout opening night feature.
Centerpiece film: ‘Animale’
As the festival progresses, the East Coast premiere of Emma Benestan’s Animale takes center stage. Set in a French town gearing up for its annual bull racing competition, the community is thrown into a frenzy by a string of grisly murders committed by a wild bull. This film promises to be a gripping and intense experience.
Closing night: ‘The Rule of Jenny Pen’
The festival concludes with the East Coast premiere of James Ashcroft’s The Rule of Jenny Pen. John Lithgow delivers a chilling performance as a deranged nursing home resident who terrorizes a new fellow resident, played by Geoffrey Rush. This twisted and mean-spirited gem is sure to leave a lasting impression.
World premieres: Fresh horror tales
BHFF 2024 is also the stage for several world premieres, showcasing fresh and innovative horror stories:
- House of Ashes: Izzy Lee’s directorial debut follows a grieving widow under house arrest who questions her sanity as supernatural events unfold.
- Psychonaut: This queer science fiction adventure by Thijs Meuwese explores the dark recesses of a dying girlfriend’s mind through a futuristic healing machine.
- Lilly Lives Alone: Martin Melnick’s film delves into the psyche of a guilt-ridden woman on the 10-year anniversary of a tragic accident, leading her into a drug and booze-fueled fever dream.
Fear in focus: Spanish horror
The Fear in Focus sidebar program returns, this time spotlighting horror films from Spain. Highlights include 35mm screenings of Vampyres and The Blood Spattered Bride, as well as a showing of the Spanish version of Dracula with a live score from The Flushing Remonstrance. This program offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich and diverse landscape of Spanish horror cinema.
Notable premieres and special screenings
The festival lineup is packed with notable premieres and special screenings that are sure to captivate audiences:
- Custom: Tiago Teixeira’s erotic body horror film makes its North American premiere, delving into the dark and sinister world of a couple producing erotic films for money.
- Generation Terror: This late ’90s horror documentary by Phillip Escott and Sarah Appleton examines the global effects of the turn of the millennium on horror films.
- Grafted: Sasha Rainbow’s body horror film, starring Jess Hong, offers a bubblegum-poppy makeover to the genre, making its North American premiere.
Special awards and recognitions
The Leviathan Award, presented by Arrow Video, will be given to Larry Fessenden for his film Habit. This special screening will be followed by a Q&A session with Fessenden, moderated by BHFF alum Jenn Wexler. The film follows Sam, who spirals into a drunken downward trajectory after a breakup and the death of his father, only to meet the enigmatic Anna, who might be a vampire.
Personal reflections: A haven for horror lovers
As a long-time horror enthusiast, the Brooklyn Horror Film Festival holds a special place in my heart. The festival not only showcases a diverse range of horror films but also provides a platform for emerging filmmakers to present their unique visions. The carefully curated lineup, from world premieres to special screenings, ensures that there is something for every horror fan. The inclusion of the Fear in Focus program, highlighting Spanish horror, adds an extra layer of depth and cultural richness to the festival.
Final thoughts: A cinematic journey
The Brooklyn Horror Film Festival 2024 promises to be an unforgettable experience for horror lovers. With its eclectic mix of films, world premieres, and special programs, the festival offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the world of horror cinema. Whether you’re a seasoned horror aficionado or a newcomer to the genre, BHFF 2024 is an event not to be missed. So mark your calendars and get ready for a week of spine-tingling thrills and chills.
For more information and to view the full festival lineup, visit the Brooklyn Horror Film Festival website.# Brooklyn Horror Film Festival: A Cinematic Feast for the Brave
A blood-soaked journey: ‘Housewife’
Housewife (2017) is a visceral blend of extreme horror and martial arts, directed by a master of the genre. This film follows a woman’s relentless quest for vengeance after her sister’s brutal murder. The combination of intense fight scenes and gruesome horror makes it a must-watch for fans of both genres. Watch the trailer.
Dreams turn to nightmares: ‘Somnium’
Somnium (2024) introduces us to Gemma, an aspiring actress who moves to LA and takes a job at a mysterious sleep clinic. Directed by Racheal Cain, this film explores the eerie and unsettling effects of the clinic on Gemma’s life. The New York premiere promises to be a spine-chilling experience. Watch the trailer.
Dark trails and missing children: ‘The Soul Eater’
The Soul Eater (2024) is a gripping tale from France and Belgium, directed by Alexandre Bustillo and Julien Maury. The film begins with a perplexing murder scene and a group of missing children, leading two investigators down a dark and unforgiving path. This East Coast premiere is sure to keep audiences on the edge of their seats. Watch the trailer.
Short-form horror delight: ‘Tales From the Void’
Tales From the Void (Season 1 Episodes 4-6) offers a treat for fans of short-form horror. This anthology series, derived from Reddit, features episodes directed by Maritte Lee Go, Francesco Loschiavo, John Adams, and Toby Poser. With world and New York premieres, this series is a must-watch for horror enthusiasts. Watch the trailer.
A karmic journey: ‘Timestalker’
Timestalker (2024), directed by Alice Lowe, follows the hapless heroine Agnes as she is reincarnated every time she falls in love with the wrong man. This New York premiere, presented by The Future of Film is Female, promises a unique and engaging narrative. Watch the trailer.
Disturbing heights: ‘Who’s Watching’
Who’s Watching (2024) marks the directorial debut of Tim Kasher, frontman of Cursive. This film delves into the life of a mentally disturbed social misfit who becomes dangerously infatuated with a female co-worker. The East Coast premiere is set to be a dark and unsettling experience. Watch the trailer.
A cinematic masterpiece restored: ‘Wake in Fright’
Wake in Fright (1971) is a masterwork of pure cinematic madness, directed by Ted Kotcheff. This film follows a schoolteacher as he loses his mind amidst drunken Aussie locals. The 4K restoration of this classic is a must-see for fans of intense and disturbing cinema. Watch the trailer.
A cult classic: ‘The Addiction’
The Addiction (1995), directed by Abel Ferrara, is a ’90s cult classic about a doctoral student who becomes a vampire. This film explores her adaptation to her new lifestyle and thirst for blood, making it a fascinating watch for fans of vampire lore. Watch the trailer.
Fear in focus: Spain’s horror gems
‘Exorcismo’
Exorcismo (2024), directed by Alberto Sedano, dives into the post-Franco era of Spanish cinema. This film explores the era’s erotically explicit horror and genre films, making its North American premiere a significant event. Watch the trailer.
‘Vampyres’ – 50th Anniversary
Vampyres (1974), directed by José Ramón Larraz, celebrates its 50th anniversary. This film follows a pair of ravenous femme vampires as they search for men to bring back to their creepy mansion. Watch the trailer.
‘The Blood Spattered Bride’ (35mm)
The Blood Spattered Bride (1972), directed by Vicente Aranda, is a cult classic about a newly married woman who falls for a beautiful, long-dead lady vampire. This sexually charged horror film is a must-watch for fans of the genre. Watch the trailer.
‘Dracula’ (Spanish Version w/ Live Score)
Dracula (1931), directed by George Melford, is an unsung gem of Universal’s 1931 Dracula productions. This special screening with a live score from The Flushing Remonstrance is a unique opportunity to experience this classic film. Watch the trailer.
Short films: A feast of horror
Nightmare Fuel
Nightmare Fuel is a chilling block of purely scary horror short films. From Ouija board mishaps to techie ghouls and cult rituals gone awry, this collection is sure to keep you awake at night.
- Dream Creep, dir. Carlos A.F. Lopez (USA)
- Pop, dir. Josh Jones (USA)
- Agonist, dir. Annie Marie Elliot (USA)
- Cease to Exist, dir. Taylor Nodrick (Canada)
- The Awakening, dir. Al Campbell (UK)
- Taboo, dir. Almog Avidan Antonir (USA)
- Inked, dir. Kelsey Bollig (USA)
- Mr. Static, dir. Mike Williamson (USA)
- Transylvanie, dir. Rodrigue Huart (France)
Head Trip
Head Trip is Brooklyn Horror’s signature celebration of genre-bending horror. This collection includes sexual darkness, animalistic transformations, and coming-of-age supernaturalism.
- Evil, I, dir. Vanessa Beletic (USA)
- Izzy, dir. Yfke van Berckelaer (Netherlands)
- Poppy’s Saturn, dir. Nicole Tegelaar (Belgium)
- Calf, dir. Jamie O’Rourke (Ireland)
- Faces, dir. Blake Simon (USA)
- Kneading, dir. Lulu Syracuse, Augie Syracuse (USA)
- Tight, dir. Jessica Barr (USA)
- Femme, dir. Nina Noël Raaijmakers (Netherlands)
Slayed: LGBTQ Horror Shorts
Slayed: LGBTQ Horror Shorts, presented by Horror Press, focuses on LGBTQIA+ filmmakers and themes. This selection lives up to its name with a diverse and engaging collection of short films.
- Beach Logs Kill, dir. Haley Z. Boston (USA)
- Lady Parts, dir. Ariel McCleese (USA)
- Unsettled, dir. Bella Thorne (USA)
- Dream Factory, dir. Alex Matraxia (UK)
- Rat!, dir. Neal Suresh Mulani (USA)
- Stink, dir. Matias Breuer (USA)
- Girls, dir. Julien Hosmalin
Laugh Now Die Later
Laugh Now Die Later, presented by Teeth: The Musical, combines horror and comedy. This collection features personal trainers, home invasions, and sexual dysfunction, ensuring plenty of laughs and scares.
- Cheat Meal, dir. Drew Bierut (USA)
- The Last Thing She Saw, dir. Anthony Cousins (USA)
- Mean Ends, dir. Émile Lavoie (Canada)
- Erection and Destruction, dir. Eddie Mullins (USA)
- Make Me a Pizza, dir. Talia Shea Levin (USA)
- Roger is a Serial Killer, dir. Don Swaynos (USA)
- Hold Up, dir. Ori Guendelman (USA)
Home Invasion #1
Home Invasion #1 showcases NYC local shorts with a buffet of genre film goodness.
- Red Flag, dir. Malin Barr, Cleo Handler
- Be Bad, dir. Lauren Hart
- By The Window, dir. Case Avron
- Wild Animals, dir. David B Jacobs
- I Prefer Monsters, dir. Dylan Brown
- Tinkerhell, dir. Noah Sterling
- Hammer, dir. Alejandra Parody, Ben Sottak
- Stigmata, dir. Ben Gordon
- Jump Cut, dir. James Martin Morrison
Home Invasion #2
Home Invasion #2 continues the showcase of NYC local shorts, reminding us that NYC genre films are built different.
- Red Flag, dir. Malin Barr, Cleo Handler
- Be Bad, dir. Lauren Hart
- By The Window, dir. Case Avron
- Wild Animals, dir. David B Jacobs
- I Prefer Monsters, dir. Dylan Brown
- Tinkerhell, dir. Noah Sterling
- Hammer, dir. Alejandra Parody, Ben Sottak
- Stigmata, dir. Ben Gordon
- Jump Cut, dir. James Martin Morrison
The Brooklyn Horror Film Festival offers a diverse and thrilling lineup for fans of horror and genre films. From feature films to short films, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.# Exploring the latest in cinema and TV series
A fresh wave of creativity in film
The world of cinema is constantly evolving, with new directors and innovative storytelling techniques emerging every year. This season, a diverse array of films has captured the attention of audiences and critics alike. Let’s delve into some of the most intriguing titles and what makes them stand out.
The sacrifice: A haunting tale
Directed by Christopher Werener, The Sacrifice is a film that delves deep into the human psyche. The narrative revolves around themes of loss, redemption, and the lengths to which one will go to find peace. The cinematography is nothing short of breathtaking, with each frame meticulously crafted to evoke a sense of unease and wonder. For those interested in a gripping psychological thriller, The Sacrifice is a must-watch.
VHX: A blend of animation and live-action
VHX, directed by Alisa Stern and Scott Ampleford, is a unique blend of animation and live-action. This film pushes the boundaries of traditional storytelling by integrating various forms of media to create a visually stunning experience. The plot centers around a group of friends who stumble upon a mysterious VHS tape that changes their lives forever. The innovative use of animation techniques makes VHX a standout in this year’s lineup.
Accidental stars: A journey of self-discovery
Emily Bennett’s Accidental Stars is a heartfelt exploration of identity and self-discovery. The film follows the journey of a young woman who, after a series of unexpected events, finds herself thrust into the limelight. The character development is profound, and the narrative is both touching and inspiring. For those who enjoy character-driven stories, Accidental Stars is a film that should not be missed.
The retreat: A suspenseful escape
The Retreat, directed by Emmett Kerr-Perkinson, is a suspenseful thriller that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. The story revolves around a group of friends who embark on a weekend getaway, only to find themselves entangled in a web of secrets and danger. The film’s pacing is impeccable, and the tension builds masterfully throughout. The Retreat is perfect for those who love a good mystery.
The shadow wrangler: A dark fantasy
Grace Rex’s The Shadow Wrangler is a dark fantasy that transports viewers to a world where shadows come to life. The film’s imaginative storyline and stunning visual effects make it a captivating watch. The protagonist’s journey through this shadowy realm is both thrilling and thought-provoking. For fans of fantasy and adventure, The Shadow Wrangler is a film that promises to enchant.
Implied monsters: A psychological horror
Implied Monsters, directed by Christine Nyland, is a psychological horror that delves into the fears that lurk beneath the surface. The film’s eerie atmosphere and unsettling narrative make it a chilling experience. The director’s use of subtle horror elements rather than overt scares adds to the film’s haunting quality. Implied Monsters is a must-see for horror enthusiasts.
Strange creatures: A whimsical adventure
Nicholas Payne Santos brings us Strange Creatures, a whimsical adventure that is both heartwarming and entertaining. The film follows a group of misfit creatures on a quest to find their place in the world. The charming characters and imaginative world-building make Strange Creatures a delightful watch for audiences of all ages.
Girl with the grey eyes: A poignant drama
Kara Grace Miller’s Girl With the Grey Eyes is a poignant drama that explores themes of love, loss, and resilience. The film’s emotional depth and powerful performances make it a standout. The story of a young girl navigating the complexities of life with her unique perspective is both moving and inspiring. Girl With the Grey Eyes is a film that resonates long after the credits roll.
Don’t f*ck with Ba: A bold statement
Directed by Sally Tran, *Don’t Fck With Ba* is a bold and unapologetic film that tackles contemporary issues with a sharp wit. The film’s provocative title sets the tone for a narrative that is both daring and thought-provoking. The director’s fearless approach to storytelling makes https://trailers.movieetv.com/search/dont-fck-with-ba“>Don’t Fck With Ba a film that challenges and engages its audience.
Reflections for cinema and TV series enthusiasts
As a cinema and TV series enthusiast, it’s always exciting to see how filmmakers push the boundaries of storytelling and visual artistry. Each of these films offers a unique perspective and a fresh take on their respective genres. Whether you’re drawn to psychological thrillers, heartwarming dramas, or whimsical adventures, there’s something in this lineup for everyone.
The beauty of cinema lies in its ability to transport us to different worlds, evoke a range of emotions, and provoke thought. These films not only entertain but also challenge us to see the world through different lenses. As we continue to explore the ever-evolving landscape of cinema, it’s clear that the future holds endless possibilities for innovation and creativity.
For those eager to dive deeper into these films, the provided links offer a gateway to trailers and additional information, allowing you to immerse yourself in the stories and worlds crafted by these talented directors. Happy watching!