​From YouTube to the Big Screen: How Horror Creators Are Breaking Into Hollywood- 

Two of 2025's biggest horror hits, The Backrooms and Obsession, proved that the path to Hollywood is changing. Both films were created by directors who built their careers on YouTube, turning online content into major box office success.

Join Tannon Sweet, entertainment company owner and film industry professional, for an inside look at how creators are using digital platforms to launch careers in film. Learn how to build an audience, create opportunities, and position yourself for success as an actor, filmmaker, or content creator. If you're ready to stop waiting for a break and start creating your own, this panel is for you.

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Horror 101: The Importance of Theatrical Exhibition in modern Horror Films- 

Horror is constantly evolving, and this panel takes a closer look at where it's headed. Topics include the battle between theatrical releases and streaming, the growing impact of independent horror studios, and a beginner's guide to navigating the film festival circuit.

We'll also discuss the ongoing trend of remakes and reboots, what makes them succeed or fail, and take a look at some of the most anticipated horror releases coming in 2027 and beyond. Whether you're a filmmaker, industry enthusiast, or lifelong horror fan, this discussion offers an exciting look at the future of horror cinema.

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Campfire Stories: Spooky Tales to Keep You Up at Night- In this panel attendees will be invited into a dimmed panel room with an electric campfire prop and free s’more treats. The host (published author and seasoned storyteller Breanna Bright) will share a brief history on oral storytelling followed by a series of traditional scary campfire stories and urban legends - told in a classic flashlight-under-the-chin style storytelling. Attendees will be invited to share their own stories as well. This draws on the nostalgia of camping, sleepovers, and Scary Stories to Tell in the Dark, going back to the thing that made us all horror-lovers.

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Blood in The Clocktower Game- Blood on the Clocktower is a game of murder and mystery, lies and logic, deduction and deception for five-to-twenty courageous players and one devious storyteller. A social game played in person, seated in a circle, each player receives either a ‘good’ or ‘evil’ token with their unique character on it. Good players share information to solve the mystery whilst evil players lie about who they are and what they know. The good team wins if they can piece together their knowledge, trust each other, and execute the demon. The evil team wins if the demon can sow distrust, evade detection, and wipe out the town.

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The New Gothic Romantic period/ Scream Queen contest- 

Step into a celebration of the modern gothic revival and the return of romantic horror. This panel explores the resurgence of atmosphere, emotion, and artistry in horror storytelling, from classic influences to the new wave of gothic-inspired films shaping the genre today.

Alongside the discussion, we’ll host a live Scream Queen contest, where participants take the stage one by one to deliver their best, most unforgettable scream. Inspired by classic 80s horror and modern favorites, it’s a fun, high-energy moment that brings the spirit of the genre to life in real time.

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HOUSE OF FLIES: Making a Nightmare a Reality- This panel introduces the upcoming independent horror film House of Flies and takes a candid look at what it really takes to bring a project like this to life with limited budget and little to no prior industry experience.

We’ll break down the challenges, setbacks, and unexpected wins that come with independent filmmaking, along with the lessons learned along the way. From problem-solving on set to pushing through creative limitations, this is a behind-the-scenes look at building a horror film from the ground up.

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How to Write Horror William Schlichter- William Schlichter, screenwriter and author, will share his experiences writing zombies and serial killers along with other phantasmagorical terrors. Horror writing is not just about slaughtering oversexed, drug using teenagers. It is about creating an atmosphere that messes with mind of the reader and even after the book has finished keeps the reader wondering if there is a monster in the closet.

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Create The Horror- Alan Doyal Holt- Join filmmaker Alan Doyal Holt for a hands-on workshop about taking control of your horror experience by creating your own films. A lifelong horror fan, Alan will walk through the process of how his passion turned into independent filmmaking, covering everything from idea to finished project.

This panel explores the creative process, the challenges of working with little to no budget or industry experience, and what it really takes to bring horror stories to life. Alan’s work is featured on IMDb, and his films are available on demand. He also shares his distribution through Payhip at Castle Holt Films VOD and updates via Castle Holt Films on Facebook.

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Working with Mask Making Latex: River City Monsters- Join River City Monsters for a hands-on look at the art of mask making with latex and how this versatile material is used in practical effects. This workshop breaks down the basics of working with latex, from sculpting and molding to painting and finishing techniques used in horror masks and creature effects.

We’ll also explore the many applications of latex in film and haunt work, including character design, prosthetics, and scare effects. Whether you're just getting started or looking to refine your craft, this session offers practical insight into bringing monsters to life.

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