Mike Thomas, Film Critic and Co-Founder of FANtastic Horror Film Festival, Dies at age 72
The Californer/10356036

SAN DIEGO - Californer -- Mike Thomas, the outspoken film critic and co-founder of San Diego's FANtastic Horror Film Festival, died Wednesday, August 25, after years of battling kidney disease. He was  72.

Together with his wife of 31 years, Jo Ann, Thomas founded the FANtastic Horror Film Festival in 2013, creating a venue dedicated to independent horror filmmakers and the artists behind their work. The festival operated through 2023 and presented more than 300 awards to independent filmmakers and stars during its decade-long run.

Thomas was widely known for his candid film criticism, particularly his willingness to take major studio productions to task while championing independent films. His passion for independent filmmakers became the driving force behind the festival.

The impact Thomas had on independent filmmakers and other talent  was reflected in the tributes following his death.

"In the world of independent film, Mike Thomas was loved by everyone, and for good reason: he treated us with respect and graded us on a curve. I'll never forget him. We'll always miss him."

— Bill Oberst Jr., Emmy-winning actor

The FANtastic Horror Film Festival was listed on IMDb and FilmFreeway and attracted filmmakers, actors, producers, critics, and horror fans from throughout the independent film community.

"With the FANtastic Horror Film Festival, Mike not only created a rock-solid event, he created a community. His contributions will be long revered and remembered."

More on The Californer

• Amid a National Addiction Crisis Psychologist Offers a New Path Forward
• Inglewood Associates and Gordon Brothers Provide Update on Sale Process for 925 Euclid Avenue in Cleveland
• Century Fasteners Corp. Exhibiting at the 2026 International Fastener Expo
• Attn: Advertisers, Ad Agencies and Attention Every Business in the Universe: Now you can Download the Best Kept Secret in Advertising for only $4.95
• Ventura College Foundation Accepting Scholarship Applications for 2027-28 School Year

— Steve Barton, horror icon and founder of Dread Central

For many filmmakers, the festival became a place where recognition turned into lasting professional and personal relationships.

"I had the pleasure of meeting Michael at his film festival, the FANtastic Horror Film Festival down in San Diego. I was fortunate enough to win a few awards over the three years I attended. Michael had a love of horror, and he was gracious with all the filmmakers and guests who attended the festival. I met many people there that I am friends with to this day."

— Michael Coulombe, Academy Award winner and filmmaker

Those who worked closely with Thomas say his commitment to independent horror was matched by his generosity toward the people who made it.

"It was one of the great honors of my life helping Mike and Jo Ann run the FANtastic Horror Film Festival. Mike's love of the independent horror community was evident at every event. He was not only a great festival founder, but a great man and a good friend."

— Matt Chassin, publicist, producer, and executive producer, FANtastic Horror Film Festival, 2013–2023

Thomas's health declined significantly following a stroke in 2018, after which he lost kidney function and began undergoing hemodialysis. Despite the challenges, his wife and those close to him say his love of cinema remained an important part of his life.

"Mike Thomas loved cinema, horror, and his wife. His love for all three shone through everything he did."

More on The Californer

• What they are saying: Strong support for California's new laws to expand EV access, consumer choice, and cut dependence on oil
• Las Vegas Attorney Thomas Boley Publishes Free Plain-English Guide to 100 Nevada Criminal Laws, in English and Spanish
• Ahead of Climate Week NYC, Governor Newsom announces California cut climate pollution again as economy keeps growing
• Scale Your Side Hustle Overnight: Why Smart Creators Are Ditching Traditional Livestreaming
• California: Governor Newsom signs most comprehensive data center laws in the nation, providing communities more control on water, electricity, and land use

— Kristin West, actress, filmmaker, and host of the FANtastic Horror Film Festival Awards Ceremony

News of Thomas's death has prompted an outpouring of tributes from filmmakers and members of the horror community who credit him with providing independent artists an opportunity to be seen, recognized, and connected with one another.

"Mike was one of a kind and truly a gem. I will always be grateful for his kindness, his support, and the memories we shared. He will be deeply missed."

— Armin Nasseri, filmmaker and multiple award winner

"My prayers and condolences go out to his family and loved ones. His contributions and endeavors will always be appreciated and never forgotten."

— Zainab Ali, horror blogger and judge, FANtastic Horror Film Festival

Thomas is survived by his wife, Jo Ann, and many nieces and nephews.

A celebration of Mike Thomas's life is planned for later this year in his hometown of Philadelphia. Additional details will be announced by the family.

A GoFundMe campaign has been established to help cover the costs of Thomas's celebration of life and final expenses.

https://gofund.me/b128d1234

About Mike Thomas

Mike Thomas was a film critic, independent cinema advocate, and co-founder of the FANtastic Horror Film Festival. Founded with his wife, Jo Ann, in 2013, the festival ran through 2023 and recognized more than 300 independent filmmakers and stars. Thomas's work helped create a lasting community around independent horror cinema and provided a platform for filmmakers whose work might otherwise have struggled to find an audience.