Both Hinkle and Schneider say they wish to lengthen the duration of the festival in the future to two weeks from one, and also include more film makers and panel discussions.

“We have really high hopes for it this year and we’re looking to get the word out, let people know that these films are playing, and that they’re terrific, a lot of fun,” Schneider says. “I really think it’s going to be word of mouth this year.”

Fun is precisely what Visual and Environmental Studies film student Duncan A. Johnson ’05 says he appreciates about such a festival.

“You can’t really call yourself a film buff without knowing horror or sci-fi, so festivals like this are fun events that bring together experts and casual viewers for a chance to appreciate the magic of cinema,” Johnson says. He also suggests that the reason horror films are so attractive is because they allow people to “live vicariously through the killers and the victims.”

Schneider and Hinkle agree, and hope that this element will guarantee longevity to the festival.

“What all these films have in common is a departure from reality, ranging from the peculiar to the extreme, yet always in a highly entertaining manner,” Schneider says.

“It’s fun to play movies that people think are fun,” Hinkle adds.

—The Boston Fantastic Film Festival will screen at the Brattle Theatre, 40 Brattle St, from today through October 23.