The DCA’s DUNDEAD Festival is returning for its 13th year next month - with SIX premieres
- Andrew Batchelor
- 2 days ago
- 2 min read
Dundee's own horror film festival is back next month – and it's threatening a hair-raising line-up for fans of everything frightening and film enthusiasts everywhere.
The DUNDEAD festival returns to Dundee Contemporary Arts (DCA) from Thursday 8 to Sunday 11 May 2025, packed with a weekend of terrifying fiction, gory gems, and brand-new horrors from around the globe.
Now in its thirteenth year, the festival is going from strength to strength and solidifying its place as Scotland's top destination for horror fans.
This year's programme is a thrilling combination of UK and Scottish premieres, cult favourites from the past, and the return of the very popular DUNDEAD Film Quiz.
Film buffs can look forward six premieres, two of which are UK premieres and four which are Scottish premieres, ranging from stories of France and Canada to Japan and Poland.
Buckle up for spine-tingling animations, punk rock horror shenanigans, coming-of-age scares, and more to keep you hanging on your seats.
Leading the programme is the UK premiere of Darkest Miriam, an unsettling and surreal tale by Britt Lower's, setting the tone for what promises to be an electrifying couple of days.
Standouts from the rest also include Somnium, another dark and sinister tale about a aspiring actress who toils for an mysterious sleep clinic, and Sanatorium Under the Sign of the Hourglass, highly touted return to feature filmmaking of the great Quay Brothers with their wicked new feature.
For those who appreciate the classics, DUNDEAD 2025 is delving deep into the world of Italian horror with a thrilling retrospective.
Expect blood, mystery, and gothic spectacle with screenings of Dario Argento’s Deep Red and the beautifully restored Suspiria, Mario Bava’s influential Black Sunday and A Bay of Blood, Lucio Fulci’s notorious Zombie Flesh Eaters, and the cult favourite Demons, celebrating its 40th anniversary with a 4K screening to close the festival.
To further add to the festival's charm, this year's Dundead merchandise boasts unique designs by Dundee-born illustrator Katriona Gillon, included as part of the Full or Half Pass.
Passes further cover entry to screenings, with Full Pass holders receiving access to all 12 films, along with a t-shirt and a special edition print.
The DUNDEAD Film Quiz is also returning, challenging horror enthusiasts to try and win some diabolical prizes.
Tickets and passes go on sale from 10am on Friday 28th March, and with DCA Member prices and special 18-25 rates, there's never been a better time to join in.
Whether you’re a hardened horror fanatic or just looking for a weekend of chilling entertainment, DUNDEAD 2025 promises an unforgettable festival of frights in the heart of Dundee.
Cover photo by Dundee Contemporary Arts.
The Dundead Festival's 13th edition at DCA promises an exhilarating lineup, featuring two UK premieres and four Scottish premieres. Horror enthusiasts will be treated to a diverse selection of films, including chilling coming-of-age stories and unsettling animations. The festival also celebrates Italian horror maestros like Dario Argento and Mario Bava. For those traveling to Dundee, consider staying at the Twin Oaks Motel for convenient access to the festivities. Festival passes are available, offering options to suit different preferences.