TBA Film Competition

Lights. Camera. Screams! Enter The TBA Film Competition!

Have you ever dreamed of making your own horror movie? Do you thrive under pressure, with just days to craft a terrifying tale? The TBA Film Competition is your chance to put your filmmaking skills to the test—right in the heart of Midsummer Scream! Whether you’re an experienced director or a first-time filmmaker, this challenge will push your creativity to the limit as you write, shoot, and submit a 5-minute horror masterpiece—all during the convention weekend.

  • Create a terrifying short film of 5 minutes or less at Midsummer Scream (or nearby).
  • Filming starts no sooner than Friday, August 15 at 6pm, and the completed project myst be submitted by noon Sunday, August 17, 2025
  • Win prizes and have your film screened during the Awards on Sunday

The best films will be screened in front of a live audience at the Screaming Room Award Ceremony, where the most terrifying, creative, and innovative entries will be crowned champions. This is more than a competition—it’s a chance to see your vision come to life, connect with fellow horror lovers, and leave your mark on the Midsummer Scream legacy.

So what are you waiting for? Grab your camera, unleash your imagination, and dare to create. The shadows are waiting… and so is your audience. Get all the details at midsummerscream.org/film-race-rules and prepare to bring your nightmare to life!

 

THE GORY DETAILS

  • All footage must be shot during the festival period (between Friday, August 15, 2025, and the submission deadline at 12pm PT, Sunday, August 17, 2025).
  • All filmmakers must have their own admission Midsummer Scream.
  • Pre-existing footage is strictly prohibited.
  • All films must be filmed within a 1-mile radius of Midsummer Scream at the Long Beach Convention Center in Long Beach, CA.
  • Animations, visual effects, and stock footage are allowed.
  • AI-generated content (scripts, voices, visuals) is strictly not allowed.
  • Proof of compliance is required, through a signed declaration upon film submission. 
  • Any rule violations may result in disqualification upon review by the judges.

 

Required Elements

To ensure fairness and creativity, each film must include:

  • Required prompts and elements: To be revealed at the Friday night kick-off event
  • The use of these elements will be revealed during the kick-off event, and how they must be incorporated into the film. 
  • Judges will verify that each film includes the required elements.

Production Limitations

  • There is no limit on cast and crew size. However, all cast and crew members must  agree to and abide by all contest rules and rules for Midsummer Scream guests. 
  • Teams must complete all aspects of production themselves. No outsourcing of filming, editing, sound design, or other production tasks.
  • Film releases are required for all individuals with speaking lines in the film.
  • All filmmakers must have valid admission to Midsummer Scream to participate.
  • Teams may film anywhere within the designated convention area.
  1. Submission Instructions

Deadline & Late Submissions

  • All films must be submitted by 12:00pm on August 17, 2025.
  • Late submissions will NOT be accepted.
  • A time-stamped upload system will be used for verification.

File Format & Technical Requirements

  • Films may be shot in either vertical or horizontal orientation.
  • Films must be submitted in MP4 format.
  • Preferred resolution: 1080p.
  • An opening or closing credit card with title
  • Maximum film length: 5 minutes including credits.

Submission Process

  • Films can be submitted via:
    • Online or via a USB drive (in person at the Screaming Room or HorrorBuzz booth)
  • Each submission must include:
    • The completed film (MP4 format)
    • An opening or closing credit card with title. 
  • A poster or promotional image will be welcomed but is not required.
  • Teams will receive a confirmation email upon successful submission.
  1. Copyright Policies

Music & Sound Effects

  • All music must be original or royalty-free.
  • Teams may compose their own music.
  • If licensed music is used, teams must provide documentation proving the right to use it.
  • The use of non-licensed music or audio is prohibited.

Footage & Images

  • All content must be original and filmed on-site.
  • Stock footage may be used, but only with proper licensing documentation.
  • CGI is allowed, but AI-generated visuals are not.
  • A list of assets is not required unless a license is needed.

Legal Considerations

  • Signed release forms are required for all actors with speaking lines.
  • The following content is strictly prohibited:
    • Hate speech
    • Explicit content
    • Any material that specifically and negatively targets a gender, race, religion, creed, or culture.
  • The festival retains distribution and showcase rights for all submitted films.
  • Screening, Midsummer Scream and related entities retain the rights to screen all submitted films for up to 2 years after submission.

Awards & Prizes

  • Winning films will be announced during the Screaming Room Award Ceremony.
  • Prizes and awards will be determined and announced before the event.

There are no pre-made sets or weeks of post-production—just you, your camera, and the terrifying vibe of Midsummer Scream. Filming must take place on-site, capturing the haunting atmosphere of the convention itself. You can sign up anytime during the weekend at the Screaming Room or HorrorBuzz booth, grab your gear, and start shooting. Work solo or assemble your crew, craft a spine-chilling story, and deliver a short film that will leave the audience screaming for more!

300 E Ocean Blvd, Long Beach, CA 90802