From Stage to Screen: Seton Hall Professor’s Film Finds Success
Left to Right: Thomas Rondinella, Samatha Jay (POC), Mitchell Cole (Writer/Director/Actor),
Tyler Shore (2nd AC), Wesley Chevillot (AD/EP), and Jack McClellan (DP)
Seton Hall Professor Thomas Rondinella, a Professor of Sound and Visual Media, has successfully transitioned his talents from the classroom to the big screen. His film, “Against the Spread,” captivated audiences at the Orlando Film Festival earlier this month.
The film, a thrilling drama, garnered a nomination for Best Feature. This recognition is not surprising, considering what Rondinella says about the film: “Audiences like it; it moves fast, it’s relatable, and it’s got some twists and turns.”
“Against the Spread” takes inspiration from William Shakespeare’s enduring classic, “The Merchant of Venice,” and unfolds as a gripping tale of an uncle and his two nephews entangled in high-stakes gambling. Mitchell Cole, the film’s writer and director, shares credit for bringing this compelling story to life.
The Orlando Film Festival holds a special significance for Rondinella as it was the very place where he first met Cole four years ago. Their paths crossed again last March when Cole reached out to Rondinella, inviting him to collaborate on “Against the Spread.” From that point forward, Rondinella dedicated himself to the project, initially working remotely for several months before traveling to Florida to scout locations and be present during the filming process, which took place in October.
Balancing his commitment to the film with his teaching responsibilities presented a unique challenge for Rondinella. “It was hard,” he admitted, “but it was gratifying. It was a labor of love and well worth it. I’m so glad I did it, and I look forward to doing it again. ”
“It helps inform my teaching here,” he explained, “and that’s why it’s so important that professors stay active in the field.” This dedication to staying active and engaged in his field underscores Rondinella’s passion for filmmaking and education.
Rondinella credits his time spent at Seton Hall as instrumental in shaping his filmmaking journey. “I went to graduate school for filmmaking,” he confided, “but I learned how to make movies at Seton Hall.” This statement eloquently reflects the profound impact Seton Hall actuated on his development as a filmmaker.
As “Against the Spread” prepares for its next cinematic outing, audiences eagerly anticipate its screening at the St. Augustine Film Festival in January 2025. The film’s success to date and its imminent availability on streaming platforms this spring are testaments to both the compelling story and the dedication of the entire team involved.
What Shakespearean elements are present in the film “Against the Spread”?
From Stage to Screen: Seton Hall Professor’s Film Finds Success
Left to Right: Thomas Rondinella, Samatha Jay (POC), Mitchell Cole (Writer/Director/Actor), Tyler Shore (2nd AC), Wesley Chevillot (AD/EP), and Jack McClellan (DP)
**Today, we’re joined by Seton Hall Professor Thomas Rondinella, whose film “Against the Spread” is making waves in the independent film scene. Professor Rondinella, congratulations on the success of your film at the Orlando Film Festival!**
**Professor Rondinella:** Thank you. It’s been an incredible experience seeing this project come to life and resonate with audiences.
**The film has been described as a thrilling drama, and you’ve mentioned it has “twists and turns.” Can you tell us a little more about the story?**
**Professor Rondinella:** “Against the Spread” is inspired by Shakespeare’s “The Merchant of Venice” and centers around an uncle and his two nephews caught up in a high-stakes gambling ring. It’s a story of family, ambition, and the choices we make, with a bit of Shakespearean darkness thrown in. [[1](https://www.shu.edu/human-development-culture-media/news/seton-hall-professor-and-film-producer-screens-new-film.html)]
**How did you bring Shakespeare into a modern-day gambling drama?**
**Professor Rondinella:** The themes of “The Merchant of Venice,” like greed, loyalty, and justice, are timeless. We adapted those themes to a contemporary setting, exploring them through the lens of high-stakes poker and the complexities of family relationships.
**The film was nominated for Best Feature at the Orlando Film Festival. What does this recognition mean to you?**
**Professor Rondinella:** It’s an incredible honour and a testament to the hard work of everyone involved. We had a fantastic team of cast and crew who poured their hearts into this project, and it’s gratifying to see our film recognized.
**What’s next for “Against the Spread”?**
**Professor Rondinella:** We’re excited to announce that the film will be screened at the St. Augustine Film Festival in January 2025. We’re also exploring other festival opportunities and distribution options.
**Professor Rondinella, thank you so much for sharing your insights and for bringing such a compelling story to the screen. We wish you continued success with “Against the Spread.”**
