Grindfest Returns This Weekend with Classic Horror Line-Up

As the days get shorter and the nights creep in, there’s no better time for a horror film festival—and Grindfest is back to deliver the chills. The sixth edition of the UK’s dedicated genre film festival kicks off this Friday, 13th September, at the Art-Deco Regent in Christchurch. Running through Sunday, 15th September, this year’s event promises a jam-packed three days of iconic films, rare screenings, and genre-defining classics, all shown on original 35mm prints. With tickets and passes still available, horror fans are encouraged to grab their seats before they’re gone!

The festival celebrates the nostalgic appeal of film on film, presenting some of the most beloved and obscure movies that have been dug out of archives across the globe. Highlights include the 1980s 3D adventure Treasure of the Four Crowns and the sci-fi cult classic The Last Starfighter, which celebrates its 40th anniversary this year. Both will be screened in their original formats, making this a must-attend event for classic film lovers and genre fans.

Friday night opens with Stephen Herek’s Critters (1986), a creature feature that set the tone for many similar films to follow. Next up is Brian Yuzna’s satirical body horror Society (1989), a film that still shocks and resonates with audiences today. Capping off the first night is the zombie classic The Living Dead at the Manchester Morgue (1974), a rare gem in horror history that’s sure to thrill the crowd.

Saturday brings even more genre favourites, including the aforementioned The Last Starfighter and the notorious Turkish knockoff Turkish Star Wars—introduced by film expert Dr. Iain Robert Smith. The day also features the fan-favourite Short Film Showcase, championing up-and-coming filmmakers from across the globe. In the evening, David Cronenberg’s body horror masterpiece The Fly (1986) will take over the screen, followed by the much-anticipated Mystery Movie, which will be revealed only when the reels start rolling.

Sunday’s line-up is equally packed, with highlights like the 3D screening of Treasure of the Four Crowns (1983) and the gripping Michael Mann horror The Keep (1983). The festival closes with John Carpenter’s legendary Escape from New York (1981), starring Kurt Russell in one of his most iconic roles.

Grindfest is more than just a chance to watch these films on the big screen; it’s an immersive experience where the love of film is shared by all. From its luxurious venue to the vintage celluloid projection, it’s a festival where fans can meet and mingle with like-minded film lovers. Organisers Dirt in the Gate Movies have gone above and beyond this year, teaming up with Dead Good Tees to offer exclusive Grindfest merchandise, which will be available during the event.

Whether you’re a lifelong horror fan or a newcomer to the genre, Grindfest looks to be an unforgettable weekend of cinematic thrills, chills, and surprises. For tickets and more information, head to The Regent or Dirt in the Gate Movies’ online platforms: theregent.co.uk/whatson/grindfest