Inaugural film series designed to bring artists and creators together for monthly events celebrating the universal power of storytelling
Magic Rat at The Elizabeth Hotel is excited to announce the launch of The Magic Rat Film Showcase, a vibrant new event designed to bring together a diverse community of artists and creators for monthly events that foster connection and creativity.
Hosted at the iconic Magic Rat space in downtown Fort Collins, this new ongoing event will serve as a platform for filmmakers from all walks of life to share their stories and deepen the relationship between art and community.
The Magic Rat Film Showcase mission is simple yet powerful: to create an inclusive environment where creators can connect, collaborate and celebrate the universal power of storytelling. By sharing a wide range of films that reflect the rich diversity of human experiences, the event aims to foster meaningful conversations and inspire creativity within Fort Collins and beyond.
“The Magic Rat Film Showcase is more than just a film screening; it’s a celebration of community and creativity,” says Carl Pratt, general manager of The Elizabeth. “We’re thrilled to bring together talented filmmakers and community members to create lasting connections and to celebrate the artistry that brings us all closer together.”
The first season of the showcase will feature a variety of films across different genres, each chosen for its unique perspective and contribution to the broader artistic landscape. Attendees can expect thought-provoking narratives, innovative storytelling and a true representation of diverse voices.
Inaugural Magic Rat Film Showcase Schedule
Wednesday, May 21 – NO VACANCY – Jay Sherer
A superhero thriller short film where heroes don’t wear capes but hide in plain sight. This 20-minute, pulse-pounding short film blends gritty realism with supernatural twists. Doors will open at 5 p.m. for a happy hour with director Jay Sherer. The screening will start at 7 p.m. and will be followed by a talk-back session with Maya Ortega and Sherer.
Wednesday, June 18 – GREEN AND GOLD – Anders Lindwall
This heartfelt film is based on true events and follows a struggling dairy farmer in Wisconsin who bets on the Green Bay Packers to save his family farm. Director Anders Lindwall will present a special viewing of select scenes from the film, followed by a talk-back session. Doors will open at 6 p.m. for a happy hour, followed by a 7 p.m. screening and talk-back, with a VIP afterparty starting at 8:30 p.m.
Wednesday, July 16 – WOMEN IN FILM – Cassie LeFevre, Hannah Tran and Madison Santamaria
A showcase featuring animated film, “Checkbox Other,” exploring the complexities of biracial identity and behind-the-scenes moments from the making of a documentary on the 50th anniversary of the Vietnam War. This showcase will highlight powerful and underrepresented narratives from women filmmakers. Doors will open at 6 p.m. for happy hour, followed by a 7 p.m. screening and talk-back.
Wednesday, Aug. 20 – METHOD – Nkosi Roma
This psychological drama blurs the line between performance and reality as aspiring actor Gideon confronts his deepest fears under the watchful eye of an obsessive theater director. A haunting exploration of identity, obsession and the cost of artistic pursuit. Doors will open at 6 p.m., followed by a 7 p.m. screening and talk-back. A hands-on experience with Nkosi Roma will start at 8:30 p.m. (additional ticket required).
Wednesday, Sept. 17 – FUTURE FRAMES: A Student Film Showcase – Kay Emerson
An inspiring event designed for students passionate about storytelling and filmmaking. This showcase connects young creatives with experienced storytellers, offering an opportunity to showcase work and learn from industry professionals. Doors will open at 6 p.m., followed by a 6:30 p.m. screening and talk-back with student creators.
Wednesday, Oct. 15 – SCORING FOR FILM – Davis Harwell
Composer Davis Harwell will bring the art of film scoring to life with a unique, live-action engagement, composing a score in real-time while watching a film. This experience reveals the magic of film composition in action. Doors will open at 6 p.m., followed by the live scoring starting at 7 p.m.
“The Magic Rat space at The Elizabeth Hotel offers the perfect setting for this exciting venture, combining a warm, intimate atmosphere with the buzz of artistic energy,” says Shantel Hansen, an award-winning Northern Colorado documentary filmmaker who is curating the series. “Guests, community members and students will have the opportunity to interact with filmmakers, participate in Q&A sessions and discover new voices in the world of independent film.”
Attendees are encouraged to enjoy Magic Rat’s extensive menu of cocktails and food before and after each show. Tickets to each screening are $10 per person. For more information, including the full lineup of films, tickets and special events, visit magicratfilmshowcase.my.canva.site.
