MOTELX 2024: ‘The Procedure’ and ‘Oddity’ Top Lisbon Horror Fest

The 18th edition of MOTELX, Lisbon’s premier international horror film festival, wrapped up in style on 16 September 2024, announcing a series of winners that highlighted the finest in European and Portuguese horror cinema. Held at the iconic Cinema São Jorge, the festival showcased over 100 films from 30 countries, spanning every corner of the horror genre.

Among the standout winners, The Procedure, directed by Chico Noras, took home the prestigious MOTELX Award for Best Portuguese Horror Short Film. The jury, consisting of film programmer and critic Cátia Rodrigues, journalist Heidi Honeycutt, and broadcaster Nuno Galopim, praised the film’s “colourful art direction” and “sharp acting,” noting how these elements contrasted with the film’s unsettling atmosphere. The film secured the top prize of €5,000, the highest monetary award in the festival’s national short film competition. In addition, a Special Mention went to Umbral for its “original vision,” further highlighting the festival’s commitment to fostering homegrown horror talent.

In the European competition, Irish filmmaker Damian McCarthy’s Oddity was awarded the coveted Méliès d’argent for Best European Feature Film. The jury, including film critic Alan Jones, director Rui Vieira, and producer Stefanie Coimbra, lauded the film’s inventive choreography, striking practical effects, and the director’s “darkly provocative panache.” Mc Carthy’s work continues to affirm Ireland’s rising stature in the global horror scene.

The European Short Film category saw Meat Puppet, directed by Eros V (UK), claim the title of Best European Short Film. Described as a “funny but also meaningful body horror coming-of-age film,” Meat Puppet impressed the jury with its clever take on body horror. Spain’s Be Right Back, directed by Lucas Paulino and Gabe Ibañez, received a Special Mention for its unique approach.

Festival attendees also made their voices heard, with Coralie Fargeat’s The Substance, starring Demi Moore and Margaret Qualley, receiving the Audience Award. The film, which has generated significant buzz since its Cannes debut, continues to attract attention for its bold exploration of themes around self-perception and societal pressure.

Artistic directors Pedro Souto and João Monteiro expressed immense pride in the festival’s success, remarking on the “incredible days” shared by filmmakers and fans. They emphasised the growing enthusiasm for the horror genre in Portugal, noting the strong attendance and participation from an audience that clearly relishes the festival’s unique offerings.

As MOTELX looks ahead to its 19th edition, slated for 9 to 15 September 2025, the festival’s influence on the global horror community continues to grow. With its impressive slate of films and its mission to nurture both local and international talent, MOTELX is firmly establishing itself as one of Europe’s top horror film festivals.