Two short films, born from collaborations between Hastings College faculty and students, have been named official selections for the 2025 Flatwater Film Festival. The festival, which celebrates Nebraska storytellers, takes place September 26-28 in Seward, Nebraska.
The selected films are “Expedition Yellowstone,” a documentary directed by Dr. Jesse Weiss, professor of sociology and associate vice president for academic affairs, and “Threat,” a narrative short film written and directed by Jarod Rogers, instructor of media.
“Expedition Yellowstone” chronicles a spring break 2025 field experience where Hastings College students explored the unique sociology and wildlife of Yellowstone National Park. The documentary features students sharing their own stories and reflecting on the profound impact of the trip. The film recently received an Honorable Mention from the Denver Monthly Film Awards, recognizing its compelling storytelling.
“To study places in a classroom and then venture out to visit them allows students a tactile experience that can change their lives,” Weiss said. “Capturing that journey on film and helping them tell their stories is an honor. It’s the Hastings College experience in action.”
Rogers’s film, “Threat,” is a comedy thriller that was a true student-involved production. While written and directed by Rogers, the film was produced, acted and shot by Hastings College students, giving them professional-level experience.
“This project was an incredible opportunity for students to apply their classroom skills to a creative, hands-on project from start to finish,” Rogers said. “I can’t express how proud I am of their efforts and hard work. I encourage everyone to come out and support these talented Nebraska filmmakers and storytellers.”
Both films will be screened at the Rivoli Theatre in Seward. “Expedition Yellowstone” will screen on Saturday, September 27, at 8:35 a.m., while “Threat” will screen on Sunday, September 28, at 10:40 a.m.
More information about the festival and its full schedule is available at flatwaterfilmfestival.com.
Trailers and full versions of the films can be viewed online:
- “Expedition Yellowstone” can be viewed at youtu.be/0ESGB-tezxw, with a trailer at youtu.be/kWCaN-QgWpU.
- “Threat” can be viewed at youtu.be/dDQpiNf2Css.
Hastings College is a four-year residential college that focuses on student academic and extracurricular achievement. Discover more at hastings.edu.