Overlook Film Festival 2027: Immersive Horror, Thriller and Sci-Fi Calls, $40 Deadline 30 October
The Overlook Film Festival is accepting immersive projects for its 2027 edition alongside horror, thriller and science-fiction feature and short films. For immersive makers, the next published fee tier ends on 30 October 2026: US$40 per submission. Later application windows are available, but the price increases. This is a genre-focused festival rather than a general-purpose VR or media-art residency, so entrants should assess whether their project suits its dark or suspenseful programming.
Which forms may enter?
The official submissions page expressly adds an immersive projects category alongside features and shorts. The programming identity is horror, thriller and science fiction, with an interest in inventive audience experiences. Digital installations, VR narrative work or interactive presentations may be relevant, but producers should consult the detailed application category and technical requirements before assuming that any arbitrary XR work qualifies. Previously submitted immersive works do not need a duplicate submission simply because the category has been added.
Deadlines and fees are category-specific
For immersive projects, the 30 October 2026 Halloween deadline costs US$40. The 27 November regular deadline costs US$45; 24 January 2027 late entries cost US$50 and the final 29 January deadline costs US$60. Conventional short and feature films have different, higher fee tiers, and the organiser states explicitly that it does not offer fee waivers. Applicants must use the live FilmFreeway form for current category descriptions and payment requirements.
Selection, exhibition and creative suitability
Overlook has developed a reputation for curated genre cinema and participatory horror experiences and maintains archives of past film programmes, filmmakers and special events. It can be attractive for artists interested in tension, storytelling, physical space and audience interaction. However, any event appearance, travel support, sale or future distribution is contingent on selection and the agreement offered; an application fee does not buy a screening slot.
Where to verify and apply safely
The festival's own site documents eligibility, the deadline grid, past editions and contact information. Follow the official Submit page into the designated FilmFreeway listing. Before providing viewing copies, check rights to all audio, footage, characters and performers, and verify your category's restrictions in the live submission rules.
Official rules and application
Information reviewed 22 October 2026. Recheck the organiser's deadlines, fees, rights and participation rules immediately before applying.