From Easy Rider through Betty Blue to Wild at Heart, the Festival has championed a diverse range of what are commonly called ‘cult’ films. Some were little seen on their initial release and took years (or even decades) to develop a reputation, while others made a splash when they landed for their controversial content.

Looking through this year’s Night Moves and Under the Radar selections (areas of the programme custom-built to produce a few specialist genre stand-outs) there are a number of films which have plenty of cult appeal.

Indeed, this year’s fest may become a premiere spot for emerging cult classics.

The Extra Man from the makers of American Splendor (EIFF 2003) adapts a novel from Jonathan Ames - creator of the kooky detective series Bored to Death, which is also featured at this year's festival. Echoing Harold & Maude and Rushmore, it's the perfect recipe for cult status.

Former stand-up comedian Bobcat Goldthwait's feature, World's Greatest Dad, stars Robin Williams as a school teacher and failing writer who is rapidly becoming out of touch with his son's generation. The snowballing success of this black comedy - from a director who’s better publicly known for his acting turn as a Police Academy character - demonstrates its immense underground appeal.

More recently animated features have been achieving cult status and McLaren Animation hosts two programmes to showcase the best of British animation. Featuring all forms of animation, this is the perfect way to experience Britain's Aadrman and Pixar studios in the making.

Set in Edinburgh, Outcast is the rule-breaking debut from Colm McCarthy. A hit at South by Southwest festival, it has great potential to become a classic of the ultimate cult genre: horror. It's a dynamic and intelligent feature that reinvents the mainstream ideas of the horror film.

An honourable mention has to go to Chase the Slut from director (and 2009 EIFF blogger) Ryan Denmark. Can Ryan top last year’s genre-mashing Romeo and Juliet vs. the Living Dead? Going by the title alone, it seems he already has.

Of course, there’s nothing better than being there at the start of something special, so be sure to check out these and other cult classics in the making at this year’s fest.

Tickets for all films and events go on sale at midday on Thursday 3 June. Tickets can be purchased online, by telephone on 0131 623 8030 or in person at Filmhouse. Get great value on films and events with the EIFF Saver.