Film fans from across Oxford have been turning out en masse this week to enjoy the week-long series of movies that have heralded the Oxford Mail's first film festival.

Opened officially on Monday night by the Lord Mayor and Mayoress of Oxford, John and Sue Tanner, cinemagoers have enjoyed a feast of horror - Alien - action and adventure - Casino Royale - cowboys in space (seriously - that's what Serenity is all about), lurve - Before Sunrise - and tonight of course, will be able to laugh for England with a screening of Billy Wilder's Some Like It Hot, starring Marilyn Monroe, Jack Lemmon and Tony Curtis.

According to Colin McBride, the Oxford Mail's film editor, the choice of six films chosen by the region's film lovers has shown a decidedly discerning palate.

"When we first proposed the idea of getting people to actually vote for the six films they most wanted to see again on the big screen, we were, it has to be said, taking a leap of faith," he said.

"I did have nightmares that we might find ourselves just showing the latest horror films and blockbusters. But the choice of the voters has surprised and impressed me.

"In fact, in the final list of films, there was every kind of movie, bar the cinematic equivalent of the kitchen sink (although the French film Delicatessen snagged a vote or two...).

"Serenity on Wednesday night was certainly a surprise, and attracted a large crowd of committed 'browncoats' (that's what Serenity fans call themselves).

"And last night's screening of the romantic hit Before Sunrise was also a delightfully unexpected choice.

"Tonight of course, we'll be showing Some Like It Hot, and should any men in the audience want to come dressed as women (Jack Lemmon and Tony Curtis pretend they are female musicians in the movie), we'll give a bottle of champagne or two to the most elegant..."

Suzy Sheriff, manager of the Phoenix Picturehouse in Walton Street, Jericho, which is hosting the festival, said she thought much of the event's success was down to the fact that before each screening, a short talk helped equip audiences to look out for the some of the lesser-known production aspects of each film.

"This is a REAL film festival," she said. "We're not just showing the films, but attempting to make each screening an event.

"The audiences have been happy to enter into the spirit of the festival. I'm delighted."

Some Like It Hot (Cert. U) will be showing tonight at the Phoenix from 8.45pm. Tickets are just £3.00 - if you can present a copy of today's Oxford Mail. And tomorrow, it's Pulp Fiction. Call 08707 583218 for further details.