A conversation with R. Zoe Judd, Executive Director
Leading up to the celebration of its 20th anniversary in 2027, the HorrorHound Film Festival continues to thrive as a cornerstone event in the horror community. R. Zoe Judd, a filmmaker, producer and overall fan of independent cinema, has served as executive director of the festival since 2020 and remains a respected figure in the horror film community, inspiring emerging talent and audiences alike. With its dedication to independent cinema and vibrant community of fans, the festival remains a beacon for filmmakers looking to share their unique visions in the ever-evolving world of horror.
Q. How would you describe your festival to a first-time attendee?
R. Zoe Judd:
Attending the HorrorHound Convention and Film Festival is an immersive experience that brings together horror enthusiasts, creators and celebrities in a vibrant celebration of the genre. First-time attendees can expect an extensive array of activities, including film screenings, a vendor merchandise hall and celebrity photo-ops, autographs and panels. The film festival showcases a mix of short and feature-length films, often accompanied by Q&A sessions with filmmakers and cast members, providing deeper insights into the creative process. Panels cover a wide range of topics, from discussions with industry professionals to stories about the productions of classic horror films. Workshops on filmmaking and script reads are also available. Following the convention, there are a variety of after-hours activities including film screenings, scare-oke and concerts.
Q. Can you give us a brief history of your film festival?
RZJ:
The HorrorHound Film Festival was established in 2007 as part of the larger HorrorHound Weekend convention. Created to celebrate and elevate the world of independent horror cinema, the festival emerged from a passion for the genre and a desire to provide a platform for emerging filmmakers. HorrorHound Magazine, based in Cincinnati, spearheaded the initiative to bring together horror enthusiasts, creators and fans under one roof.
With an initial focus on screening a mix of classic and contemporary horror films, the festival offered U.S. premieres and exclusive screenings. Early milestones included showcasing iconic films like “Let the Right One In,” “Tucker and Dale vs. Evil,” “Nightbreed: The Director’s Cut” and “Martyrs.” Its mission was clear: to shine a spotlight on innovative storytelling and provide filmmakers with a dedicated audience of horror aficionados.
Q. What is your background in film? How did you become involved in this festival?
RZJ:
My filmmaking journey began in 1986 during a high school film communications class, along with the support from my father and a lifelong love for horror films. After a five-year role documenting local events, I founded Frankly Zoe Productions in 2001, expanding into narrative shorts, commercials, music videos and feature films. My first feature, “Devil’s Grove,” premiered at the New York City Horror Film Festival and won Best Special Effects at the Fright Night Film Festival.
My initial festival involvement began in the early 2000s with regular attendance at the Tribeca Film Festival and the New York City Horror Film Festival. In 2003, I founded the Youth Summer Movie Project, which inspired the creation of the Frankly Film Fest in 2005. Initially a one-time event, it became an annual festival spotlighting independent filmmakers. In 2020, I became executive director of the HorrorHound Film Festival, growing the semi-annual event into a premier platform for genre cinema, showcasing acclaimed films and fostering industry connections.
Q. How has the festival grown or changed since it began?
RZJ:
Over the years, the HorrorHound Film Festival expanded its reach, hosting semi-annual events in cities such as Indianapolis, Cincinnati, Columbus and Pittsburgh. It has become known for its diverse programming, spanning subgenres like horror comedy, slashers, paranormal tales and sci-fi. Screenings of critically acclaimed films such as “Hereditary,” “The Devil’s Candy,” “Summer of ’84” and “Terrifier” have solidified its reputation as a premier genre festival.
Q. What are some key moments or major accomplishments in the festival’s history?
RZJ:
The festival’s dedication to excellence has earned it numerous accolades. It has received multiple Rondo Hatton Classic Horror Awards, which recognize outstanding achievements in the horror genre as voted on by fans. Our events have won Best Horror Convention (twice), as well as Best Fan Event (twice). HorrorHound Weekend and Film Festival was also honored in 2016 by NUVO Magazine as recipient of their Cultural Vision Trailblazer Award for our continued support of independent filmmakers and cinema. In March 2022, Dread Central named it one of the Best Horror Film Festivals in the World, cementing its status as a key player in the genre’s global landscape.
HorrorHound Convention and Film Festival
September 12–14, 2025
Sharonville Convention Center, Cincinnati