The Keweenaw Peninsula is about to get a little stranger this October as the first-ever Wolf’s Head Film Festival arrives at the Orpheum Theater in Hancock.
Founded by filmmakers Daena and Amanda Makela, the event grew out of a desire to bring more independent and cult cinema to a region that largely relies on a single commercial theater. Inspired by time spent in Austin’s vibrant indie film scene, the pair began hosting small screenings last year and quickly realized there was an appetite for something bigger…something communal, creative, and just spooky enough to suit the season.
Wolf’s Head is rooted in collaboration, reflecting the Makelas' own experience running 2nd Sandbar Productions. They view the festival not just as a place to watch films, but as a way to connect creators, build future partnerships, and eventually foster original filmmaking in the region. Horror and cult cinema became the ideal entry point—genres that thrive on shared reactions and can be produced on nearly any budget with enough imagination. The festival received submissions from around the world, with a notable number coming from Michigan filmmakers following that DIY spirit.
Watch the classic trailer for The Blair Witch Project:
This year’s program pairs nostalgic classics with fresh discoveries, including a screening of "The Blair Witch Project" (chosen for its low-budget ingenuity and Northwoods atmosphere) alongside the Michigan premiere of "Stolen Kingdom," a true-crime documentary currently making waves on the festival circuit. The event isn’t limited to film; attendees can expect live music, karaoke, and a special guided experience inside the Quincy Mine that promises surprises fit for Halloween weekend.
Watch the trailer for Stolen Kingdom:
Kurt Hauswirth spoke with Makela about the film fest:
Keeping the festival accessible was central to its planning. Admission is pay-what-you-can, bolstered by community sponsorship to ensure future screenings and, eventually, grant opportunities for local filmmakers. Looking ahead, the organizers hope Wolf’s Head will expand to more historic venues across the Keweenaw and become a destination for both cinephiles and creators eager to showcase—or set—their stories in Michigan’s northernmost reaches.
More information, ticket registration, and VIP passes are available at wolfsheadfilm.com.
