Big Screen Horrors Return to Bristol with Forbidden Worlds

The Forbidden Worlds Film Festival is set to return with a bang this October, promising two nights of classic horror and a very clear message: beware of strangers. Taking place at Bristol’s former IMAX, now known as the Bristol Megascreen, the festival will run from 11th to 12th October 2024 and is themed around the ominous concept of ‘Stranger Danger’. With a line-up that includes restored cult favourites, modern classics, and eerie international hits, this year’s festival promises to be an amazing cinematic experience for horror fans.

Audiences will be treated to six handpicked horror films, each focusing on the terrifying consequences of interacting with the unknown. Headlining the event is the UK premiere of a 4K restoration of Dario Argento’s Opera, one of the Italian maestro’s most visually stunning and audacious works. Also in the line-up is a freshly restored version of the 1986 cult thriller The Hitcher, featuring the late Rutger Hauer in one of his most iconic roles, alongside the ‘90s slasher hit I Know What You Did Last Summer, which cemented its place as a teen horror classic.

The festival’s line-up continues with a chilling mix of both new and old horrors. The Shout, a British folk horror gem, takes viewers into a psychological nightmare, while Cure, the influential Japanese thriller, brings a slow-burn descent into madness. Finally, When a Stranger Calls, often considered the ultimate stranger danger horror film, rounds off the programme, reminding audiences why it’s never safe to answer a mysterious phone call.

Each feature will also be preceded by a horror short film, with five of the shorts created by talented Bristol-based filmmakers. This not only gives local artists the chance to showcase their work on the biggest screen in the South West but also allows festivalgoers to experience an array of emerging talent before diving into the main attractions.

Forbidden Worlds Film Festival, launched in 2022, has quickly established itself as Bristol’s premier genre film event, bringing fans an annual celebration of horror, science fiction, action, and fantasy. Known for its inventive use of Bristol’s vast Megascreen, the festival has previously featured exclusive video introductions from Hollywood legends like James Cameron and Guillermo del Toro. The mix of nostalgia and big-screen spectacle continues to make it a must-attend for lovers of the classics.

Alongside the films, attendees can expect a festival atmosphere, complete with bespoke drinks and food offerings. New Bristol Brewery returns with their special Forbidden Sesh IPA, while Espensen Spirits will serve up a selection of cocktails inspired by the festival’s film programme. Food stalls, including Indian Summer’s range of Asian snacks and Mobile Coffee Box’s hot drinks, will ensure that visitors are well-fed throughout the event.

For collectors and enthusiasts, local artist Jim’ll Paint It will be on hand selling exclusive posters and t-shirts featuring his festival designs, while Second City Comics will offer horror-themed merchandise, toys, and DVDs.

Tickets are already selling fast for what promises to be a chilling weekend of films, food, and fanfare. Festival passes are available now, with individual tickets expected to go on sale soon. Don’t miss out on your chance to experience some of the best in horror cinema on one of the largest screens in the country.

For more information and the full line-up, visit the Forbidden Worlds Film Festival website: headfirstbristol.co.uk/whats-on/bristol-megascreen-bristol-aquarium/fri-11-oct-forbidden-worlds-the-big-scream