Frightfest announces guest line-up

Robert Englund and Alan Moore top the list.

by Jennie Kermode

Englund's iconic Krueger.
Englund's iconic Krueger.

Freddy Krueger himself - or at least the man who played him, Robert Englund - is to make a special appearance at this year's Film4 Frightfest, it was announced today. Besides A Nightmare On Elm Street, which celebrates its 30th anniversary this year, the 67 year old actor has also starred in genre hits from V to Strippers Vs Werewolves, as well as playing a memorable Phantom of the Opera. “Englund is one of the genre’s originals and we are thrilled to host such an icon of fright,” said festival co-director Alan Jones.

Also big news for fans is a scheduled appearance by legendary author and noted recluse Alan Moore, creator of the original comics behind From Hell, V For Vendetta and Watchmen. Moore will introduce his new short film triptych Show Pieces along with its director, Mitch Jenkins.

Other stars joining the line-up are horror's latest scream queen, Maika Monroe (It Follows), acclaimed director John McNaughton (Henry, Portrait Of A Serial Killer), and actress Essie Davis, who has gone from a bit part in The Matrix Revolutions to wow audiences with her recent turn as a troubled mother in The Babadook, which will be screening on the Friday night. Festival stalwart Nacho Vigalondo will introduce not one but three films - Open Windows, V/H/S/ Viral and his much-loved science fiction comedy romance Extraterrestrial - while Fabrice Du Welz will introduce Alleluia, a film already attracting impressive word of mouth.

With a further 25 directors, six producers and 17 actors filling out the line-up, it's going to be a busy few days.

Film4 Frightfest will run from 22 to 25 August. You can read or coverage so far here.

Share this with others on...
News

Insult and injury MH Murray, Mark Clennon and Nat Patricia Manuel on I Don’t Know Who You Are

Home truths Intercepted director Oksana Karpovych on aggression and resistance in Ukraine

Bad influence Natasha Henstridge on Cinderella's Revenge

Creating atmospheres Jessica Hausner on Sylvie Testud, Léa Seydoux, Heidi and Lourdes

Documentaries for Ukraine fundraising screening Edinburgh College of Art hosts charity event

Slamdance to make LA move 'Fringe' festival to leave Utah for next edition

ICA trialling relaxed screenings Blackbird Blackbird Blackberry to pioneer accessibility strategy

More news and features

Interact

More competitions coming soon.