The Overlook Film Festival, the local annual celebration of all things horror in the film industry, will take place April 4-7. This year’s festival will feature breakout work such as Realm of Satan, which premiered at Sundance’s 40th edition festival in January, and Nicolas Cage’s latest jump into the horror genre titled: Arcadian. Realm of Satan is a dialogue-free deep dive into the every day world of Satanists who advocate for free speech, and like Rob Reiner’s God & Country, tackles freedom of religion. (Filmmaker Scott Cummings is known for his previous delve into the realm of Insane Clown Posse fans with his documentary, Buffalo Juggalos.) Arcadian, starring former French Quarter-resident Nicolas Cage, is billed as a post-apocalyptic film with the actor portraying a father desperately trying to take care of his children.
“With the full scope of this year’s lineup, we’re thrilled to be able to recognize all of the many forms horror can take,” says Lisa Carbonari, festival director of The Overlook Film Festival. “We’re diving headfirst into the dark and twisted, through the films, immersive presentations, interactive exhibits, themed parties and even sensory experiences. We can’t wait to get together with our fellow horror-lovers and celebrate all of the different ways we enjoy being scared.”
The new additions to the lineup bring the festival total to 52 films (28 features and 24 shorts) from 11 countries, as well as four live presentations, six immersive experiences and six special events.
Also joining in the festivities will be a group of newly announced special guests. John Cameron Mitchell, the writer, director and actor behind acclaimed work such as Hedwig and the Angry Inch, will join to moderate the previously announced Q&A with the legendary Paul Williams following the 50th anniversary screening of Phantom of the Paradise. Acclaimed actor David Dastmalchian (Christopher Nolan’s The Dark Knight and Denis Villeneuve’s Dune) will return to The Overlook after joining in 2023 with his buzzy new film, Late Night With the Devil. This year he will also introduce the 70th anniversary screening of Creature From the Black Lagoon as the horror movie host Dr. Fearless, as well as be the guest on the live recording of the podcast “Scream Dreams,” presented by AMP, featuring hosts Catherine Corcoran (Troma’s Return to Nuke ‘Em High) and Barbara Crampton (Re-Animator, Creepshow).
Two new immersive experiences were also added to the schedule. Local artist Boyfriend will perform, as well.
The 2024 Overlook Film Festival is dedicated to the memory of the festival (and film industry) friend and colleague Doug Jones
Jones (1970-2023). For tickets and the full line up, click here.
