A shot from the short film, Enigma. ~Photo courtesy of Boston Sci-Fi Ashley Troutman Do you like to be first? Then you won't want to miss the film debuts at the thirty-fifth annual Boston Science Fiction Film Festival. The fest began last Friday at the Somerville Theatre, and ditched their normal routine of a twenty-four hour movie marathon. This year they are offering ten entertaining days, showcasing thirty-seven shorts and nineteen films including premieres, schlock favorites, and Hollywood blockbusters.

The impressive line-up for the fest includes premieres of buzzed about films Mutant Swingers from Mars featuring Jack White from the White Stripes, Lunopolis, and Caller ID. To see the entire schedule, go to http://bit.ly/cbMncv.

Opening day commenced with a special screening of Sleep Dealer, winner of The Sundance and Berlin Film Fest, directed by Alex Rivera. The film is set in the future, where Mexican "sleep dealers" work in the US. Eric A. Zimmerman, director of Caller ID, attended on February 7th for the World Premiere of his film. He and actor Nathan Bexton hosted a Q&A session afterward for fans. Commenting on the film, Zimmerman said, "We definitely pushed the envelope, and I think we made some breakthroughs. The piece took on a life of its own. I don't think any film has quite been done this way." Zimmerman's film is based on actual voice mail messages he received from a disturbed woman, giving it a unique edge that can easily draw attention in a world that loves reality entertainment. The film stars James Duval (Independence Day) and Peter Greene (Pulp Fiction, The Mask).

Jack White of the White Stripes crossed over to the movie industry with his first performance in Mutant Swingers from Mars, a film that makes fun of sci-fi. In their quest for more females, martians travel to Earth and work with a mad scientist to create a "chick magnet." Enigma, directed by Jason and Matt Shumway, The Latest Thing, directed by Hamilton Scott, and Operation: Blast, directed by Jeffrey Hollins are just three of the shorts on the schedule.

The Boston Science Fiction Film Festival chose Somerville sculptor, Casey Riley to create its awards. Riley has a graphic design degree as well as a BFA from Massachusetts College of Art and Design. While in school, Riley won an in-house sculpting position with Hasbro.

Shows start at seven for the rest of the week, excluding the 14th. The last day of the festival falls on Valentines Day and begins at noon. Twenty-four hours of movies will be shown, including older favorites Godzilla Vs. Mothra and Colossus: the Forbin Project, as well as new hits District Nine, and Moon. Enter contests, win prizes, and catch a burlesque show all in one day. For more information visit: bostonsci-fi.com.