The Second Annual Queer Screams presented 32 NEW genre films by LGBTQ+ filmmakers from all over the world.

The opening night double feature highlighted a film franchise that has haunted us for decades: Final Destination & Final Destination 2. Franchise creator Jeffrey Reddick was in attendance for a discussion about the history, as well as the future, of queer horror. The discussion was moderated by Midnight Mass Podcast’s Joshua Grannell and Michael Varrati.

The closing night featured a special screening of All About Evil. The film’s writer/director, Joshua Grannell, was in attendance for an extended Q&A. Joshua was the recipient of the 2024 Queer Screams Career Achievement Award: Honoring Significant Contribution to Queer Horror Cinema & Culture.

In addition to the film screenings, the festival was excited to include LIVE Burlesque performances by Baby Le’Strange, one-half NelSon and Prince Peanut-Butter + LIVE Drag performances by Hella Haunted, Dragageddon and Theoddra MonStar & Aunt Gore.

The 1st Annual Queer Screams Film Festival – August 18 to 20, 2023 – presented 28 new horror/sci-fi/fantasy films by LGBTQ+ filmmakers, several of whom were Portland locals.

The opening night Double Feature highlighted two horror classics from the early 1970’s: David Cronenberg’s Shivers and George A. Romero’s The Crazies. Cult actress Lynn Lowry, star of both films, was in attendance for a Q&A.

The closing night featured a special charity screening of Elvira’s Haunted Hills. The film’s director, Sam Irvin, hosted the charity event, which also included a Q&A and a book reading. Oh yeah, Cassandra Peterson – Elvira herself – popped in to say “Hi”.

In addition to the film screenings, the festival was excited to include LIVE performances by Hella Haunted, Violet Wanda and Body Academics.