Lights, Camera, Action: Prince George’s Film Festival Takes the Stage at Bowie State

Bowie State University hosted the fourth annual Prince George’s Film Festival (PGFF: Take Four) from Sept. 26 to Oct. 4, 2025. In partnership with the Prince George’s Arts & Humanities Council and the Prince George’s County Film Office, the festival brought together filmmakers, students and community members for more than a week of screenings, workshops and conversations about the power of film. The event highlighted Bowie State’s growing leadership in arts and media education, with faculty, students and industry professionals uniting to explore the evolving landscape of storytelling. 

The Fine and Performing Arts Center (FPAC) served as a hub of activity throughout the festival, with the Dionne Warwick Theater at the heart of major events. Attendees experienced independent films from across the country and abroad, while also engaging in panels that explored topics such as financing, distribution, immersive media and the growing role of artificial intelligence in storytelling. A strong focus on students and short films gave emerging creators a chance to share their work and connect with industry professionals. 

The theater itself became part of the story. Named in honor of legendary performer Dionne Warwick, it provided a fitting backdrop for screenings, workshops and the awards program. The venue underscored Warwick’s legacy as an icon whose influence continues to inspire future generations of artists.  

One of the standout festival moments came during the screening of a moving documentary that sparked deep reflection among attendees. “Stand Together as One – The Famine, The Music, The Impact” is a documentary revisiting the making of “We Are The World,” the charity single featuring Ms. Warwick and other stars. The energy in the room was steady and thoughtful, with a relaxed and reflective atmosphere as the audience engaged fully with the film’s message. Although the crowd was small, it was attentive and deeply connected — among them were notable guests Chip Duncan and Dr. Breaux. The event was hosted by Al Reynolds, adjunct professor in the Department of Communications and Fine Arts, who guided the audience through the discussion with insight and warmth. 

“The documentary captured not just a moment in history, but a message we still need today,” Reynolds said. “You could feel the emotion in the room. The audience was truly connected.” 

That connection was clear as the audience collectively responded to the film’s emotional storytelling and music. Many attendees shared that they found the documentary “sad but very great,” expressing how moved they were by its themes of resilience and unity. 

“It’s powerful to see how music can unite people across generations,” said Reynolds. “Tonight reminded us that art still has the ability to move us, heal us and bring us together.” 

The closing weekend brought the community together for screenings that blended powerful storytelling with spirited discussion. Bowie State faculty and students played key roles in facilitating talkbacks and workshops, underscoring the university’s place as both a venue and a partner in shaping the next generation of filmmakers. 

The Prince George’s Film Festival once again proved to be more than a showcase of films. It was a celebration of voices, creativity and community, and Bowie State’s role as host placed the university at the center of a vibrant regional conversation about storytelling and representation in the arts.