Fantastic Fest has kicked off in Austin, TX with a bang, and our own Clarke Wolfe is on the ground at the Alamo Drafthouse to catch all the films, karaoke, and cinematic shenanigans. Last night, the gang celebrated the opening of the genre film festival with a star-studded red carpet, screenings and Q&As, and a Christmas-in-September after party for all the folks of tinsel town. Get the scoop on what makes this fest so special (movies, BBQ, and delectable chaos, just to name a few) from the directors, actors, and fans on the scene in our Fantastic Fest Day 1 wrap-up.

Nerdist is the official media sponsor for Fantastic Fest 2015. Stay tuned for interviews, reviews, behind-the-scenes, and special guests from September 24 – October 1, right here on Nerdist.