Los Angeles’ iconic horror festival Shriekfest has announced today a new Grand Jury Prize for the festival, awarding this year's winner with a full distribution deal via distributor Gravitas Ventures (HELL BABY, FELONY, THE LONGEST WEEK). Shriekfest will run from October 2 – October 5, 2014 at Raleigh Studios in Hollywood.

Citing a reach of over 100 million homes, Gravitas Ventures will release the winning film with a Video On Demand distribution deal formed through a collaboration with the filmmakers.

Gravitas Ventures, does not shy away from the ghosts and ghouls of independent film, having added many horror hits to their library including HELL BABY starring Rob Corddry and Leslie Bibb, APARTMENT 1303 with Mischa Barton, and this year’s Sundance hit, JAMIE MARKS IS DEAD with Liv Tyler and Judy Greer.

Shriekfest, now in its 14th year, was created in July 2001 by Denise Gossett and has grown into the longest-running and one of the largest horror and sci-fi film festivals in the country. Since its inception, Shriekfest has offered young and upcoming writers, actors, and producers a chance to have their work screened and rated by peers.

“I love that we have teamed up with Gravitas Ventures!  The whole point of Shriekfest is to help independent filmmakers and this is only going to add to that philosophy!” said Denise Gossett, Festival Founder/Director.

“We love seeing the twisted talent coming out of Shriekfest every year, and are so excited to get a chance to work with such a great outlet for upcoming horror filmmakers,” said Gravitas’ Mia Bruno, Senior Manager of Acquisitions.  “We are so glad to be able to give these films the life they deserve,” said Bruno.  “And the after life.”