When U.S. Senator Daniel Riley is found dead at his grand estate, the police quickly declare it a suicide. His beloved daughter Jackie refuses to believe it. With her partner, Professor Millie Park, she digs into the shadows of her powerful family, determined to uncover the truth. Their search reveals rivalries, betrayals, and scandals, exposing a dangerous web of family secrets, lies, and alibis. Q&A to follow the screening with Actor Guy Nardulli
Hekla is a comedy/drama about the emotional cost of pursuing a creative life. Set over one hectic day in Chicago, it explores how ambition, identity, and vulnerability collide when you’re chasing something as personal – and uncertain – as an acting career. Hekla, a determined actress, races through auditions, breakups, and self doubt, risking her heart and career to claim her voice and step fully into the artist and woman she’s meant to be. Hekla goes on four auditions, gets new headshots, and plays Lady Macbeth in a dive bar, all while attempting to keep intrusive thoughts of a recently ended relationship at bay. Beneath the humor and dramatic momentum lies a story about the importance of showing up for yourself, even when the world isn’t clapping for you yet. Featuring a post-film Q&A with writer/director Michael Glover Smith and star/writer Elizabeth Stam