As spring unfurls its petals in 2025, horror enthusiasts from near and far are gearing up to embrace spells of suspense and chills at the highly anticipated Glasgow FrightFest. Now in its 20th year, this festival runs from March 6 to March 8, welcoming attendees to the time-honored Glasgow Film Theatre. Over the course of three exhilarating days, the festival serves as a tribute to the horror, fantasy, and science fiction genres, pushing the boundaries of filmmaking while nurturing homegrown talent alongside international filmmakers.
FrightFest has solidified its status as the UK’s largest and most influential horror event, thanks in part to co-director Alan Jones, who notes the festival’s essential role in nurturing the spirit of community among horror fans. “The FrightFest audience is vibrant, welcoming, and eager to embrace the dark unknown,” Jones remarks, highlighting the interactive experience that brings film lovers together in their shared passion for visceral storytelling. This year promises an eclectic mix of thrilling premieres and stimulating discussions, making it a must-attend for die-hard fans and casual viewers alike.
The festival’s curated offerings feature an array of world premieres and unique movies that are sure to ignite the imaginations of horror lovers. One intriguing entry is *Psyche*, directed by Stephon Stewart, which navigates a surreal landscape through the eyes of a character named Mara, portrayed by Sarah Ritter, who harnesses an antiquated 1980s computer to delve into her psyche. With Stewart in attendance to discuss the film, audiences will have the opportunity to explore this fusion of nostalgia and horror firsthand.
FrightFest will also premier *House Of Ashes*, the debut feature from Izzy Lee, promising to deliver a ghostly narrative infused with gender commentary, featuring actor Joe Lynch as a nosy jogger. The screen will soon be darkened to reveal the unsettling documentary *The Last Sacrifice*, directed by Rupert Russell, which promises to investigate the eerie cultural undercurrents that shaped the folk horror genre of the 1970s. Russell’s presence enhances the screening experience, allowing the audience to engage deeply with the themes and insights presented.
Another highlight includes *By The Throat*, a UK-set horror film that features notable talents from popular series, adding a fresh twist to familiar narratives. Jack McHenry’s *The Doom Busters* tantalizes with its promise of gallows humor and plentiful gore, echoing the festival’s tradition of showcasing quirky, yet dark tales that appeal to varied tastes.
In a world increasingly fascinated by the supernatural, Glasgow FrightFest is reaching across borders with the UK premieres of films like *A Mother’s Embrace*, a Brazilian occult thriller set against the backdrop of a tumultuous storm. The film invites audiences to explore themes of despair and resilience, emphasizing the unifying power of storytelling in the horror genre.
Equally riveting is director Adam Marcus’s *Hearts Of Darkness: The Making Of The Final Friday*, offering a revealing look behind the curtain of this beloved franchise. Such a documentary serves to remind us that horror exists not just in fiction, but also in the realities of cinema production, capturing the cataclysms that can surface during filmmaking.
The festival doesn’t solely spotlight full-length features; it also shines a light on a compilation of remarkable short films from emerging directors hailing from the UK and Ireland. This aspect underscores FrightFest’s commitment to nurturing new voices in the industry, offering essential exposure to creators whose visions deserve to be seen. Each screening introduces audiences to fresh narratives and innovative styles, reflecting the diverse landscape of contemporary horror filmmaking.
For those eager to participate, FrightFest passes and individual tickets go on sale on specified dates, catering to various budgets. With prices starting affordably and special rates for concessions, the festival hopes to maintain accessibility while ensuring all horror fans can indulge in a weekend of spine-tingling thrills.
The Glasgow FrightFest is not merely a film festival—it’s a celebration of community, artistry, and the inexplicable allure of the macabre. As the countdown to March begins, anticipation builds for what promises to be a significant chapter in the heart of Scotland’s horror landscape. Whether a long-time devotee of the genre or a curious newcomer, the festival opens the door to an immersive experience that celebrates the uncanny and the thrilling world of horror cinema.