Festival Horror en las Montañas (4)

Début du Festival: 08 octobre 2026      Fin du Festival: 11 octobre 2026

The "Horror Mountains Film Festival" stands as a vibrant annual cinematic event taking place in differents cities of the state of Veracruz, and the main venue is on the picturesque city of Xalapa, Veracruz, Mexico.

This captivating festival draws filmmakers, cinema enthusiasts, and horror genre devotees from around the globe. It spans several days, occupying various venues within the city.

In its lineup, the festival unveils an eclectic selection of films covering the genres of horror, fantasy, science fiction, and suspense. From world premieres and independent productions to revered classics and internationally significant works, the film offerings cater to the discerning tastes of horror fans. Screenings encompass a broad spectrum, ranging from chilling ghost narratives and serial killer stories to the portrayal of supernatural creatures and paranormal events.

Beyond film screenings, the "Horror Mountains Film Festival" enriches attendees' experience with a series of complementary activities and events. These include roundtable discussions and panels featuring directors, writers, and actors, providing a space to explore the creative and technical aspects of horror cinema. Additionally, question-and-answer sessions are organized after screenings, offering a unique opportunity to interact directly with filmmakers and the cast.

Best Horror Short Film
Best Science Fiction Short Film
Best Animated Short Film
Best Thriller Short Film
Best Mexican Short Film
Best Latin American Short Film
Best International Short Film
Best Feature Film

We cordially invite you to take part in the thrilling fourth edition of the Fantastic Film Festival: Horror en las Montañas, which will take place in the picturesque city of Xalapa from October 8 to 11, 2026! The festival will then tour throughout the state of Veracruz during October and November, with screenings in cities such as Coatepec, Veracruz, Boca del Río, Orizaba, and more.

Before diving into this exciting experience, please read the following call for entries carefully. We are here to answer any questions and provide any additional information not included in this document. Feel free to contact us at: horrorenlasmontanas@gmail.com


1. Participation Guidelines

1.1. There are no age or nationality restrictions for participation.

1.2. Each participant may submit as many works as they wish.

1.3. Works will be initially evaluated for inclusion in the COMPETITION sections, which include International Feature Film, Mexican Feature Film, Mexican Short Film, Veracruz Short Film, Latin American Short Film, and International Short Film.

1.4. The Horror en las Montañas Film Festival does not pay screening fees for films in competition.

1.5. There are no restrictions regarding the original format of the works.

1.6. To qualify for the feature film competition, the production date must not be earlier than 2022.


2. Submission

2.1. Submissions are open from the date of publication of this call.

2.2. Entry forms and film screeners will be accepted only through Festhome.

2.3. Participants are responsible for the rights to their works.

2.4. The deadline for submission is August 1, 2026.


3. Selection

3.1. Works will be selected for competition or exhibition, and the final decision is not subject to appeal.

3.2. The organization will determine the date and order of film screenings.

3.3. Selected works must be delivered in H264 or AppleProRes formats.

3.4. Films in languages other than Spanish must include Spanish subtitles.

3.5. Screening copies must be sent according to the schedule and format agreed upon with the organization.

3.6. The duration of selected feature films must be between 70 and 120 minutes, including credits. For short films, the duration must be between 1 and 30 minutes, also including credits.

3.7. The organization reserves the right to make last-minute changes or cancellations.


4. Delivery of Selected Films

4.1. Selected works must be delivered within the deadlines agreed upon with the Festival organization.

4.2. If a selected film is a work in progress, this must be indicated at the time of submission. A delivery date will be established to avoid unexpected exclusions from the program. The organization reserves the right to include the work in progress in its lineup.


5. Jury

5.1. The Official Jury will be composed of renowned national and international filmmakers and industry professionals, who will be responsible for granting the awards.

5.2. The Jury’s decision will be final, and some awards may be declared void.

5.3. The names of the Jury members will be announced prior to the Festival.


6. Acceptance of Terms

6.1. The organization will resolve any questions that may arise, and its decisions are final.

6.2. The organization reserves the right to use fragments of selected films for promotional purposes across different media.

6.3. Submission implies full and unconditional acceptance of these terms and conditions.


7. Awards

The organization will present four statuettes to the winners of the following categories:

7.1. Best Mexican Feature Film

7.2. Best Mexican Short Film

7.3. Best Veracruz Short Film

7.4. Best University Short Film

Additionally, digital certificates will be awarded for:

7.5. Best International Feature Film

7.6. Best Latin American Short Film

7.7. Best International Short Film

7.8. Best Animated Short Film

The organization may issue additional physical or digital certificates at its discretion.The award ceremony will take place on the final day of the Festival in Xalapa.

We eagerly await your submissions and look forward to immersing ourselves together in this fascinating world of mountain horror cinema! Are you ready to experience horror at its peak? Don’t miss this incredible opportunity!