Filmmakers, writers, actors and crew converge on the International Horror Hotel

What sets your Horror themed festival apart from others of the same genre?
There are a few things that set The International Horror Hotel apart from other genre festivals. While most genre festivals target the general public and horror fans, our event targets the film community. This makes for a great networking experience, because the majority of attendees are people working in the film industry, whether filmmakers, writers, actors or crew. In addition to our film competition, we offer competitions for screenwriters and film scorers as well. At the event, we also have live FX makeup competitions, a Scream Queen competition, convention, lectures/panel discussions, and networking parties.

What can first time festival attendees expect from your festival?
There is a lot going on, and there are a lot of great people to meet! We have multiple screening rooms, lectures, competitions and a convention going on at once, so there is always something to do. Films aren't just restricted to horror either. We accept experimental, fantasy, horror, horror-comedy, sci-fi, slasher and suspense-thriller films, so there's something for everyone when it comes to screenings. Everything is in one location - The Clarion Inn & Conference Center in Hudson, OH - which brings everyone together in one place, introducing the filmmakers to the audience.

Is there something in particular returning festival goers can expect this year?
We have two additions coming in 2016. One, we're expanding to four days, so the festival will be held from Thursday-Sunday, June 9th-12th. Also, we'll be adding on a classic car show in the hotel parking lot, with screenings held Saturday night: a drive-in experience! This just brings another fun element into the event.

What is your favorite Horror film?
I don't have a specific favorite, because I love the genre as a whole. My favorite types of horror films are psychological horror, and I also really enjoy seeing foreign horror films, because it's interesting to see what scares people and how other cultures interpret the genre.

Can you give Horror filmmakers a piece of advice when making their film?
My biggest piece of advice would be to make sure you have a solid story. Horror films aren't just about the body count, and your audience isn't a bunch of zombies! Give them something that will draw them in aside from the scares and the blood. Too many people neglect story. Don't be one of them. The second biggest piece of advice would be to make sure you get the best actors you can, and make sure you get the best possible performance out of them! That's the second thing that seems to be the most neglected. As a filmmaker, you have a lot of things to focus on during shooting, but don't let that get in the way of directing your performers. With a solid story and solid acting, you've got a solid film.