Manchester Goes Macabre with Grimmfest’s Killer Lineup

Grimmfest, Manchester’s renowned International Festival of Fantastic Film, is gearing up to unleash its latest wave of genre-defying cinema from 3-6 October at the Odeon Great Northern. This year’s event promises four days packed with thrilling premieres, exclusive screenings, and a selection of the finest horror films from around the globe.

With the anticipation building, Grimmfest has just revealed its official poster art for 2024, a striking piece by Ilan Sheady, the master of macabre. The artwork perfectly captures the essence of this year’s “Fear on Four Wheels” strand, setting the tone for what’s to come. But the poster is just the beginning—there’s plenty more in store for attendees as the festival’s full programme has been unveiled.

Grimmfest 2024 Killer Lineup

Kicking off the festival on 3 October, the Preview Night will feature the European Premiere of Tales from the Void, a chilling anthology series inspired by the most viral stories from Reddit’s r/NoSleep community. This special screening will showcase three episodes directed by some of the most innovative names in the genre, including Joe Lynch (Suitable Flesh), Francesco Loschiavo, and John Adams & Toby Poser (Hellbender). Expect everything from haunting urban legends to twisted tales that blur the lines between reality and the supernatural.

The festival’s Shorts Programmes are set to deliver a diverse range of horror, with a staggering number of premieres. From world and European debuts to regional firsts, these short films promise to push the boundaries of horror storytelling. Highlights include Suffocate, a quietly unsettling thriller from James Longman, and Man Baby, a darkly humorous exploration of fatherhood and displacement by Aaron Murtagh. Each short in the lineup promises a unique take on horror, whether it’s through psychological tension, grotesque body horror, or eerie supernatural elements.

This year’s Metamorphoses strand offers a collection of films that delve into themes of transformation, mutation, and the fragility of the human condition. One standout is Carnivora, a queasy yet compelling tale of familial obligation and the loss of self, starring Gigi Zumbado (The Price We Pay) and her sister Carmela. Meanwhile, A Green Affair, a macabre and mordantly funny film by Rebecca Thomson, explores the bizarre relationship between a neglected woman and her houseplant.

The Tensions programme will keep audiences on the edge of their seats with films that explore the pressures of modern life. From the chilling Dead of Night by Mikel Iriarte and Jack Downs, where a young woman confronts her deepest fears, to the visually stunning The Infinite Break Room by Sebastian Ganschow, these films offer a visceral look at the anxiety and paranoia that lurk beneath the surface of everyday life.

Grimmfest is also set to welcome back alumni filmmakers with new works. Jeremiah Kipp (Slapface) returns with Dark Roads, an unsettling exploration of wish fulfillment gone wrong, while Nicholas Payne Santos (It Cuts Deep) offers Strange Creatures, a haunting meditation on grief and the refusal to let go.

For those looking for something truly unique, the festival will also feature short films screening alongside feature presentations. Among them is The Blue Diamond by Sam Fox (Fck’n Nuts), a high-camp retro-80s romp that delves into toxic relationships and self-help therapy, starring the legendary Barbara Crampton.

As the countdown to Grimmfest 2024 continues, the excitement is palpable. With over 80% of festival passes already sold, fans are encouraged to act quickly to secure their spot at this year’s event. Whether you’re a hardcore horror fan or simply love the thrill of discovering new and innovative cinema, Grimmfest 2024 is a must-attend event for any serious film fan.

Tickets and passes

Tickets and festival passes are available now at the official Grimmfest website. Don’t miss out on your chance to be part of the fear and fun this October in Manchester.

Get your festival pass here