Genre Film Festival Nightstream Begins This Week: Here’s Everything You Need to Know

Spooky movie season is officially underway, and what better way to celebrate than attending Nightstream (virtually, of course). Beginning this week on October 8^th, Nightstream is a collective festival comprised of five already established genre fests that include the Boston Underground Film Festival, the Brooklyn Horror Film Festival, the North Bend Film Festival, The Overlook Film Festival, and the Popcorn Frights Film Festival. Despite the limitations that the pandemic has caused, these festivals have found a way to subvert these limits into what looks to be an exciting four days.

Sub-Genres

With a strong focus on horror, Nightstream's lineup is filled with all kinds of sub-genres. Hulu original Run, starring Sarah Paulson, will be making its world premiere by opening the festival Thursday night. Quentin Dupieux's (Rubber, Deerskin) new film Mandibles will be closing out the festival in its North American premiere. The full film lineup is available here.

Nightstream has an incredible amount to offer aside from their impressive collection of feature films. The short film program is extensive, with each individual festival providing three to five blocks worth of programming. From international to animation shorts, there's sure to be something there for every horror fan. Nightstream will also be hosting some very exciting conversations with the likes of Nia DaCosta (Little Woods, Candyman), Mary Harron (American Psycho, Charlie Says), and Scott Beck & Bryan Woods (A Quiet Place screenwriters).

Events

Along with special podcasts episodes, trivia nights, and virtual parties, the events section is packed with intriguing finds. The duo of Justin Benson and Aaron Moorhead (Resolution, The Endless) and writer/director Issa Lopez (Tigers Are Not Afraid) will be showcasing some of their home videos and providing live commentary. The festival will also be honoring writer/producer/director Mick Garris by conducting a virtual dinner featuring a slew of Garris' friends including Joe Dante, Tom Holland, and Mike Flanagan to name a few.

In these pandemic times, it's imperative to find a light in the dark in any way we can. Seeing these festivals come together to provide much needed community is deeply encouraging. The festival is certainly going to be a treat for those who love this season and are ready to curl up and watch some scary movies.

For more information on Nightstream and how to get tickets, visit their website here. Make sure to keep an eye out on FilmHounds for coverage of the festival from yours truly.