The 19th Haapsalu Horror and Fantasy Film Festival will herald spring with song as progressive rock and chainsaws meet on the opening night.

The opening will feature short performances from Kai Tarmula's musical “How the King Wished to Become Famous”, based on the legendary Estonian TV musical "How the King Wished to Go to the Moon". The performance will be dedicated to Peeter Volkonski, the original songwriter for the 1976 production who will receive HÕFF’s 2024 Award of Recognition.

The ceremony will be followed by the world premiere of the festival's opening film “Chainsaws Were Singing”, the Estonian musical horror comedy in the making for almost 10 years. Director Sander Maran’s debut feature ensures a wild ride with inventive kills, a chainsaw solo, exploding cars, romance, cute animal attacks, and even a supernatural Bukkake fridge.

The event is supported by Jameson, who will offer guests a welcome drink with Hulkur bar, with DJ Tom Lilienthal setting the mood on the decks. Before the event starts, everyone will have the chance to be photographed on the traditional HÕFF red carpet with this year's festival mascot.