Chicago, Illinois Oct 9, 2024 (Issuewire.com) - The 25th Annual Chicago Horror Film Festival (CHFF) took the Windy City by storm last weekend at The Logan Theater, delivering three days of blood-chilling indie horror, thrilling audiences and filmmakers alike. The event, held from September 27-29, 2024, marked a milestone year for the festival, showcasing groundbreaking films, empowering women in horror, and setting a new standard for the Midwest horror scene.
This years festival sold out, cementing CHFF's reputation as one of the nation's premier indie horror showcases. With films ranging from psychological thrillers to gruesome gore-fests, the festival screened dozens of new and exciting works from up-and-coming horror filmmakers across the globe.
Final Girls & Women of Horror Take Center Stage
The festival's Saturday event, themed Final Girl and Women of Horror, was a highlight of the weekend. Hosted by Assistant Producer Stephanie Sack, the event celebrated the strength and resilience of women in horror. CHFF featured special screenings and Q&A panels with female filmmakers, actors, and writers, exploring the evolving role of women in the genre. This tribute to horrors leading ladies drew a passionate crowd, inspiring conversations about the future of female-driven horror narratives.
A Weekend Full of Special Guests, Awards & Surprises
The weekend also saw appearances from horror icons and special guests, including renowned filmmakers and actors, who participated in live Q&A sessions, signings, and exclusive meet-and-greet opportunities. Managed by Program Coordinator Macklin Youmans, the festival culminated in the prestigious awards ceremony, with top honors going to the best indie horror films in categories such as Best Film, Best Director, and Best Special Effects.
CJ Vecchios Leadership Ignites Unprecedented Growth
We're thrilled to welcome back CJ Vecchio, an award-winning indie horror filmmaker from Chicago, as our festival director. Since taking the reins in 2023, CJ has catapulted CHFF to new heights. In just one year, ticket sales surged by a jaw-dropping 13,000% in October 2023, and by May 2024, sales skyrocketed by an unbelievable 39,000%! His passion for indie horror and dedication to fostering new talent has been a game-changer for the festival, making CHFF a cant-miss event for horror lovers and filmmakers alike.
This years Chicago Horror Film Festival exceeded all expectations. The level of talent we saw in both the films and the people behind them was incredible, and its a true testament to how indie horror is evolving, said CJ Vecchio. Were honored to be a platform for these artists and are already excited for whats to come next year!
Looking Ahead: Expanding the Horror Empire
As the festival continues to grow, Vecchio also announced the expansion of the CHFF brand with plans for additional events throughout the year, ensuring that horror lovers in Chicago and beyond have more opportunities to engage with the genre. In search of sponsors to support this growth, Vecchio aims to further solidify CHFF as a beacon for independent filmmakers and a must-attend event in the horror world.
For those who couldnt attend, exclusive interviews, behind-the-scenes footage, and a full list of winners will be available on the official Chicago Horror Film Festival website.
About Chicago Horror Film Festival: Founded in 1999, the Chicago Horror Film Festival is one of the longest-running indie horror film festivals in the U.S. Each year, it brings together filmmakers, actors, and horror fans to celebrate the best in horror cinema. With a mission to support and promote indie horror filmmakers, CHFF has become a key player in the global horror community.
For press inquiries, interviews, or more information, please contact:
CJ Vecchio
Festival Director
Media Contact
The Chicago Horror Film Festival
6309304316
Source :The Chicago Horror Film Festival
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