BostonSci-Fi.com FAQs

Q: What is BostonSci-Fi.com all about?
A: We love science fiction and horror movies. We talk about them and we have film festivals. The oldest and biggest one is the Boston Science Fiction Film Festival held every February. It is the oldest genre film festival in the country (we think).

We also host a horror film fest in October called The Boston Terror'Thon.

Q: I saw a reference to sf37. What is that?
A SF37 is the 37th installment of the Boston Science Fiction Film Festival. We close the Festival out with a 24 hour film marathon. Every year hundreds of people gather to spend a full day and night watching, talking and enjoying science fiction films. They forgo sleep and get a tad nutty.

Yes, people stay all night. And yes, it sometimes creates a peculiar smell. We call L'Air du 'Thon.

Q: When does this happen?
A: The 'Thon is always in February on President's Day Weekend. This year it will start on Sunday Feb 19 at noon. The Festival begins nine days before that, or this year Feb. 10.

Q: Where will it be held?
A: At the Somerville Theatre 55 Davis Sq in Somerville, MA. Somerville is right next to Boston. Davis Sq. has become very cool with great restaurants and bars. Plus the theater is literally right next to a subway stop (Davis Sq, Red Line) so it is very easy to get to it.

Q: Hey, I tried to become a member, but I was blocked. What gives?
A: Sadly there are bad people out there. Some of them have tried to gain access to the site and hack for their nefarious ends. If you're a real person and need access, please send us an email, assert your humanity and we'll take care of it. Send your query to info (at) BostonSci-Fi.com.

Q: OK, back to the festival. How long does it last?
A: The Festival begins Feb 10 with a plethora of new features and shorts. It runs through the 19th. The entire Festival concludes with the 'The Thon - 24 continuous hours, or 1440 non-stop minutes of cinematic excess. It features classics, schlockers, thought provoking stories and more. Think of it as the biggest sleepover any sci-fi geek can enjoy. You'll laugh, you'll cry, you'll yell at the screen and then wonder why people are shouting "Wheat Chex".

Q: Are telling me I'm going to be in a movie theater for one full day and night?
A: Yes, and we suggest you bring extra deodorant, mouthwash and a change of socks. We also suggest you bring some eye drops, your sense of awe and that ray gun you cherish so much.

Q: How many films will be shown in The 'Thon?
A: It varies between 12 and fourteen feature films. There will also be cartoons, some vintage movie trailers and a few surprises tossed in.

Q: Will I have a good time?
A: If you like science fiction films and staying up all night, yes, you’ll have a great time. But more importantly, it is the people who come. Folks travel from all over the country just to be at this event. They are special and the event is special. As we like to say: “We’re old enough to know better, but young enough to stay up.”

Q: You mentioned horror. Do you have a horror marathon as well?
A: That's right, grasshopper. After our success curdling our own blood we decided to run a special horror 'Thon each fall. Sign up for our SF newsletter so we can keep you posted on details.

Q: Where can I get tickets?
A: You can buy them here on the our web site (go to the Sci-Fi Store); at the Somerville Thetatre box office, or through the mail/check at Zeotrope Media 106 Jeremy Hill Rd. Pelham NH 03076

Q: What about parking?
A: We suggest you park at the Alewife T station and take the train to Davis Sq. Somerville is notoriously bad for parking and the ticket cops are ravenous. Alewife is only one stop away and parking is $7.00.

Q: How does the seating work?
A: Tickets are general admission and are good for the entire festival. This year Festival Pass tickets will gain earlier access than everyone else.

Q: What films will be playing?
A: Line-ups are announced as we get closer. If you sign up for our newsletter we'll give you a heads up.

Q Are there children’s prices?
A: Yes, but only through the Zeotrope Media home office. People can call 617-901-7280 and leave a message if no one answers.

Q: Will there be guests?
A: Probably, we’re working on it

Q: What about audience participation?
A: Audience participation is encouraged within reason. For newbies, you’ll learn about the wonders of Wheat Chex and Rice Chex as well as some other time honored tradition.

Q: What is the 'Message Board'?
That's a fan run, fan operated forum to talk about The Fest, The 'Thon and anything else science fiction. Lots of good folks discuss things there, but officially, it is separate from the web site.

Q: Can I find out more?
A: Yes. You can check out the message board and/or you can sign up for our monthly newsletter.