🎬 The People Behind Fear Fame Film Festival
Founded by working filmmakers and guided by experienced industry leaders, Fear Fame Film Festival is built to champion independent cinema in Tampa Bay and beyond.
Built by Filmmakers. Built for Filmmakers.
Fear Fame Film Festival was created by working filmmakers Joe Furnari and Heather Fraley — artists who understand the journey from script to screen.
What began as a passion for storytelling evolved into a nonprofit platform dedicated to creating opportunity, visibility, and momentum for independent voices.
Having lived the challenges of funding, distribution, and exposure, Fear Fame exists to bridge that gap and build a sustainable film culture in Tampa Bay..
Joe Furnari
Founder / Festival Director
Filmmaker • Producer • Educator
Heather Fraley
Co-Founder / Marketing Director
Actress • Producer • Brand Strategist
Joe Furnari is a filmmaker, producer, and founder of Fear Fame Productions LLC. As Festival Director, he launched Fear Fame Film Festival to create a stronger platform for independent cinema and help cultivate a sustainable film ecosystem in Tampa Bay.
Heather Fraley is a respected presence within the acting community and a creative partner behind Fear Fame Productions LLC. As Co-Founder and Marketing Director, she brings performer advocacy, brand strategy, and industry insight to expand the festival’s reach and strengthen its connection to filmmakers and artists.
Cathy Cromar
Board Member
Louise Krikorian
Board Member
Board of Directors
Fear Fame Film Festival operates under Fear Fame Arts Foundation, a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in Tampa, Florida. The foundation provides governance, financial oversight, and long-term strategic direction to ensure transparency, sustainability, and continued growth.
Fear Fame Film Festival is governed by an independent board of directors committed to transparency, sustainability, and advancing cinema throughout Tampa Bay.