INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) — Indianapolis’ Days of the Dead Fantastic Cinema Convention returns this weekend for its 15th year, bringing horror fans, celebrity guests, film screenings and costume contests to the east side of the city.
The event runs Friday through Sunday at the Indianapolis Marriott East, 7202 E. 21st St.
General admission is $30 on Friday and Sunday and $35 on Saturday. Weekend passes are also available. Military members, first responders and children under 12 get in free.
Directors George and Audery Lane, who attended the convention as fans before taking the helm, say the event has grown well beyond its horror roots.
“It’s not just horror, it’s pop culture, as well,” George said. “It used to be just strictly horror. Now adding more pop culture, it’s pretty nice.”
Attendees can expect vendor shopping — much of it from local sellers — live podcasts, live script reads, a screaming contest and costume contests for both adults and children.
Celebrity guests this year include actor Billy Zane and actress Heather Langenkamp. A full guest list is available at daysofthedead.com and on the convention’s Facebook page.
Audery says the guest experience is a big part of what makes the weekend special.
“They come in, and they just embrace what Days of the Dead is about,” she said. “It’s about community, supporting the community, meeting people. They’re making people’s dreams come true because people have been waiting to meet them.”
The convention’s film festival, now in its fifth year, will feature the largest number of local film and screenplay submissions in its history. Films this year come from as far away as South Korea.
“We have the most local films and screenplays that we’ve ever had in our five years of having the film festival,” Audery said. “It’s a great opportunity to showcase local talent.”
Screenings run throughout the weekend, and awards will be presented to filmmakers.
The Lanes encouraged first-timers to buy a weekend pass rather than a single-day ticket.
“There literally is something for everyone,” Audery said. “And don’t sleep on the costume contest — it’s amazing.”
