edited by Nikola Tzenov
McDaniel College will host its annual Cinema Showcase on Thursday, May 7, featuring seven world premiere films by student filmmakers. The event begins at 6 p.m. in Decker Auditorium and is free and open to the public.
The program includes three documentaries and four fictional narratives spanning genres from thriller and fantasy to comedy and social impact storytelling. Organizers note that some films contain adult language, themes and violence that may not be suitable for all audiences. Each screening will be followed by a brief Q&A with the filmmaker.
“Thank You, America!” by Sabina Alvarez Prats [Documentary. 24 min.] An in-depth look into the lives of immigrants from around the world who have come to the United States, and the complex hardships of experiencing cultural differences while living here.
“EASY KILL” by Charlie Hoyle [Thriller. 20 min] Alex Emerson must question his belief that every person can be good when an old friend asks for his help solving a murder. When things go sideways, will Alex have what it takes to survive the night, or will he be an EASY KILL?
“You Gotta be Joking” by Jack Katunich [Documentary. Comedy. 22 min.] The arc of an amateur comic was never going to be easy. One man explores his own identity through humor.
“Dream Sweep Memories” by Moonasia Williams [Psychological. Fantasy. 22 min.] A 25-year-old nurse plagued by vivid recurring dreams must unravel the mystery of a familiar figure who calls him “my love” before the fabric between his dreams and reality disappears completely.
“On the Road Again” by Amiya Daye [Road Trip. Slice of Life. Comedy. 20 min.] Tamera and her little sister Mackenzie aren’t close anymore, but an 11-hour road trip from Georgia to Maryland should fix that, right?
“Losing My Religion” by Terrin Bergschneider [Drama. Fantasy. 20 min.] Robyn Tietjens is a college student who’s been through way too many traumatic events. After her uncle dies, she loses her faith in religion. Can Archangel Michael help restore it?
“Down The Line” by Irene Lasky [Documentary. Environmental. Social Impact. 25 min.] A deep dive into the health, environmental, and property risks associated with AI data centers in Maryland, featuring landowners, activists, and a council member who oppose this development and the powerlines they bring.
The showcase highlights original work produced by McDaniel students across disciplines, offering a mix of personal storytelling, genre filmmaking and issue-driven documentaries. Audience members will have the opportunity to engage directly with filmmakers during post-screening Q&A discussions.
