Southern Maine Community College (SMCC) is proud to present the 15th annual Maine Mayhem Film Festival, a dynamic showcase of short films created by second-year students in the College’s Communications and New Media Studies (CNMS) program.
What began in 2011 as a student-led effort by CNMS Professor Corey Norman and student Jimmy Crocco has grown into a must-see event for film enthusiasts across the state. The festival provides students with a unique, real-world opportunity to write, direct, produce, and premiere their original films as part of their final capstone project.
“This marks the fifteenth year of the festival, and with each passing year, the quality of the films continues to improve,” Norman said. “I can confidently say that this year’s selection of Maine Mayhem films is the strongest we’ve ever had. As an educator, it’s incredibly rewarding to watch students bring their visions to life with such dedication and skill.”
This year’s festival will feature eight short films and 16 micro shorts, offering a powerful lineup of stories that range from introspective dramas to action thrillers and science fiction. The featured films include:
Guts – Directed by Maxwell Noyes
Guts starts a graffiti project with his friend, which quickly turns sour once their spot gets busted, leading Guts on a day-long journey to get back and finish the piece.
Shadows of Me – Directed by Gryphon Vorbach
For Chloe, a young nonbinary person, the harshest judgment comes from within. Struggling with self-doubt and isolation, Chloe battles a darker version of themself in a psychological confrontation that begins to shift when a new friendship offers hope and healing.
For Tomorrow – Directed by Abby Lynn Bisson
An elderly man finds himself trapped in a time loop after attempting to take his own life. The only way out is to find something-or someone—worth living for.
Freddie – Directed by Luis Miguel Valmadrid
A regular at his local bar’s chess table, Freddie is reluctant to pursue his dreams—until encouragement from a sickly mother, a trusted friend, and a new acquaintance pushes him to take a chance and enter a tournament that could change his life.
In Your Head – Directed by Tyler Lafontaine
Alex, a deeply self-conscious librarian, must confront his inner demons and self-doubt to speak at his brother’s funeral — a moment that becomes a tribute to memory, courage, and love.
21st Century Killers – Directed by Conor Sullivan
This gripping crime thriller follows a crew of amateur hitmen who unravel throughout one chaotic night. As internal tensions rise, one member’s desire for freedom threatens to blow apart their carefully controlled world.
The Oracle – Directed by Dan Whitman
A mercenary haunted by her past must choose between loyalty to her crew and the mysterious promise of a captive AI-human hybrid. Its powers could bring salvation — or destruction.
The Little Fight – Directed by Noah Satin
In the wake of their father’s death, Eric and his younger sister Erica find purpose in a rundown boxing gym. But when a ruthless promoter forces them into one last match, their fight becomes more than just physical — it becomes personal.
“The Maine Mayhem Film Festival is a powerful reflection of our students’ creativity, growth, and passion,” SMCC President Kristen Miller said. “Their hard work and artistry are on full display, and it’s inspiring to see them share their voices and talents with the wider community. We’re proud to support such an impactful program that prepares students for success in both storytelling and the broader media industry.”
Screenings will be held across multiple venues:
- May 8 – Nickelodeon Cinema, Portland
- 6 p.m. screening – Sold Out
- 9 p.m. screening – BUY TICKETS
- May 9 – The Magic Lantern, Bridgton
- 6 p.m. screening – BUY TICKETS
- Q&A session to follow
- August 24 – Vacationland Film Festival, Biddeford City Theater
- 11 a.m. screening – LEARN MORE
- Q&A session to follow
- Late May – Portland Museum of Art
- Details to be announced
The Maine Mayhem Film Festival has served as a launchpad for many students, with alumni going on to work on projects such as CODA, Knives Out, Deadliest Catch, and North Woods Law. Moreover, alumni have been admitted to prestigious film schools including USC, Emerson, and SCAD.
This year’s filmmakers represent communities across Maine and beyond — including Gorham, South Paris, Waterville, Brunswick, Portland, and more.
To learn more about the Communication and New Media Studies (CNMS) program at SMCC, visit www.smccME.edu/cnms. For Maine Mayhem updates and ticket links, visit facebook.com/MaineMayhem.