Orlando, FL — October 26, 2025 — The screams were louder, the crowds bigger, and the chills deeper than ever before as the FREAK SHOW Horror Film Festival celebrated its 20th Anniversary this past weekend. Marking two decades of terror, the festival once again transformed Orlando into the beating heart of independent horror, drawing filmmakers, actors, and fans from across the globe for a weekend of unforgettable fear and fun.
As part of its milestone year, the festival proudly announced the 2025 FREAKY AWARD WINNERS, honoring the most outstanding achievements in independent horror cinema.
2025 FREAKY AWARD WINNERS
BEST SHORT SCREENPLAY: Metal Show — Written by Ashland Thomas
BEST SPECIAL FX MAKEUP: DEVOUR
BEST FLORIDA SHORT: The Hearth
BEST SHORT: OBEY
BEST ACTRESS: Cass Huckabay for Axes & O’s
BEST ACTOR: Danny James for Lead Belly
BEST FLORIDA FEATURE: Axes & O’s
BEST FEATURE: DEVOUR
JURY AWARD: Lead Belly
20 YEARS OF CELEBRATING INDEPENDENT HORROR
Founded in 2005 by filmmaker Robert Massetti, the FREAK SHOW Horror Film Festival has become one of the most respected and longest-running genre festivals in the U.S. Known for championing independent filmmakers, the festival has helped launch countless careers and continues to serve as a gathering place for those who live and breathe horror.
“Reaching 20 years is an incredible milestone,” said Robert Massetti, Festival Founder and Director. “The FREAK SHOW has always been about more than just movies — it’s about community, creativity, and the shared love of everything dark, twisted, and beautifully horrifying. This year’s filmmakers brought their absolute best, and every scream, laugh, and gasp reminded us why we do this.”
A FESTIVAL LIKE NO OTHER
The 20th Anniversary celebration included an impressive lineup of films, Meet the Filmmaker sessions, and epic after parties, giving horror fans and creators a chance to mingle, share stories, and connect through their passion for the genre.
This year also featured the return of Freako the Clown, the festival’s demented mascot, who kept audiences on edge — and laughing nervously — throughout the weekend’s screenings and events.
ABOUT THE FREAK SHOW HORROR FILM FESTIVAL
Founded by Robert Massetti and produced by Fear Film Studios LLC, the FREAK SHOW Horror Film Festival is dedicated to showcasing the best in independent horror, sci-fi, and genre cinema. Based in Orlando, Florida, the festival continues to attract filmmakers and fans from around the world, creating a unique platform for emerging voices in horror to shine.
For updates, photos, and future submission announcements, visit www.freakshowfilmfest.com or follow on social media:
Instagram: @freakshowfilmfest
Facebook: Freak Show Horror Film Festival
