Year Two: In-Person
Last year, the KORK International Horror Film Festival exploded onto the horror scene, and lucky for me, this Turkish festival had a virtual option. This allowed audiences from all around the globe to tune in, but nothing quite compares to being in the room where the scares happen. For its second year, I decided to do KORK in-person. The energy right from the beginning was undeniable. The screenings, the crowd reactions, the eerie atmosphere of Istanbul itself—this year proved that KORK is here to stay as a rising force in international horror festivals.
The Journey There
When the opportunity to cover KORK 2025 came up, I knew it was a must. I finally had the time, the money, and the means to take Let’s Talk Terror international. So I secured my press credentials, treated myself to some new ‘fits and luggage, and was greeted with courtesy and generosity the entire way to Turkey. Traveling to Istanbul was its own adventure—steeped in history, mystery, and just the right level of gothic charm. It felt like the perfect city to host a horror festival, and lucky for me (again), this wouldn’t be my first time here. With my knowledge of the best tourist spots and knowing I’d be in for some weekend frights, I was ready.
The Festival
KORK delivered a packed schedule that balanced international features, Turkish horror gems, and experimental shorts. Between screenings, attendees had the chance to mingle with filmmakers, attend Q&A sessions, and even sneak in some sightseeing in one of the world’s most atmospheric cities.
Being Press, I was treated with hospitality beyond my wildest dreams. Before even leaving the US, festival staff formed a WhatsApp group to assist with everything from directions to and from the airport, the ins and outs of the festival, and even some fun recommendations for activities and dining around Istanbul. Even now I am in awe of the kindness and thought put into this event. I am forever grateful for the new friends I made there.
Even more so, I am impressed with the whole show! KORK had everything from a step and repeat background (which I thoroughly used) to interview opportunities (which I also got to be a part of — so cool!). Held at Istanbul’s Biletinial Torun Center Cinemas, we grabbed our free popcorn ticket and headed in to find that Turkish movie theaters aren’t so different from our own. One thing I have come to learn was that we are far more alike than we are different.
The Films
This year’s lineup was nothing short of haunting. Turkish horror classics shared the stage with brand-new premieres, highlighting the depth and creativity of the genre. From folkloric nightmares to surreal body horror and spine-chilling supernatural tales, KORK proved its commitment to celebrating horror in all its forms. Standouts included a new wave of indie films that pushed boundaries and showcased how global the language of fear truly is.
As you may know, I am a #shorts girlie — I love getting small, bite-sized pieces of horror that range from creepy to hilarious and downright frightening. Of course, they played a special screening of Bomba (read my previous review here) and had the chance to speak briefly with director Onur Doğan. Simon gave me nostalgia for days playing “The Sims.” Coleoptera gave us a French monster with amazing creature effects. The Angel was a surprising Mormon folk tale starring Doug Jones.
There was even a block dedicated solely to Turkish horror. The Barber Who Cuts His Own Hair made me laugh. Heart of the Evil made me extremely tense. Budu made me wonder, and Skin of Sadness made me realize how beautiful and soft horror can be. I cannot express how great of a genre horror is, and seeing so many terrific films from all over the world proves there are so many new ideas and new scares to be had. KORK may be a newer festival, but it rocked the selections so far.
Final Thoughts
The second year of the KORK International Horror Film Festival not only solidified its place on the horror map but also raised the bar for what’s to come. Experiencing the festival in-person was unforgettable: the community, the films, and the haunting backdrop of Istanbul made it a uniquely chilling celebration of fear. KORK is quickly becoming a can’t-miss event for horror lovers worldwide—and I can’t wait to see where Year Three takes us. I’m so glad I got to experience KORK in person, but for those who can’t, you can still join in online. Though I will say, combining travel, terror, and Turkish Delights is well worth the plane ride.
I know I will be back again.
Want to Know More?
Visit the KORK International Horror Film Festival website to learn more, and follow them on Instagram. Also check out YouTube for my on-location reviews!
