#USA #Atlanta #SCAD #Mary Shotwell Little #The Vanishing

Unveiling Atlanta's Haunting Cold Case: SCAD Students in THE VANISHING

On November 12, 2025, the SCADshow in Atlanta will host a special screening of THE VANISHING: The 60-Year Unsolved Disappearance of Mary Shotwell Little, a documentary that dives deep into one of the city's most enduring mysteries. This haunting story, still unresolved after six decades, has captivated audiences and raised questions about justice, particularly for women. What sets this screening apart is the significant contribution from student filmmakers of the Savannah College of Art and Design (SCAD), who played vital creative roles in the project.

A Collaborative Creation

The decision to involve SCAD students was spearheaded by director and producer William VanDerKloot, who has a longstanding relationship with Danya Levine, the Director of SCAD Film Studios ATL. This collaboration aimed to authentically recreate the atmosphere and details of Atlanta in 1965 when Mary Shotwell Little mysteriously vanished after a night out. Through their commitment and talent, the SCAD students took on various responsibilities, from art direction and wardrobe selection to handling props and assisting in production.

Laura Pye, a junior at SCAD, reflected on her experience, stating, “We learned to balance creative choices with ethical responsibility. Every frame had to honor Mary and the women who still seek answers.” This sentiment encapsulates the essence of the project itself, which seeks to elevate women's voices and perspectives in the storytelling process.

The Documentary and Its Impact

THE VANISHING aims to reframe old narratives surrounding Mary Shotwell Little's disappearance by incorporating modern viewpoints on justice. The documentary blends archival research, interviews, and thoughtful recreations to offer a comprehensive look at the case and its implications on contemporary society. Monument Motion Picture believes in ethical storytelling and community engagement, making this documentary not just a recounting of events, but a call for reflection and awareness.

The revelation of the collaborative efforts from SCAD students underscores the importance of educational institutions in bringing attention to significant societal issues through art. The documentary ultimately examines how crimes against women remain a pressing concern and how these stories still resonate, decades later.

Event Details: What to Expect

The free VIP screening on November 12 promises to be a unique experience, allowing attendees to delve into this haunting tale while enjoying a catered charcuterie and drinks. Following the film, a live question-and-answer session with the filmmakers, including the SCAD student participants, will provide an opportunity for the audience to engage directly with those involved in the recreation.

Event: The Vanishing – Free VIP Screening + Catered Charcuterie, Drinks, Swag Bags, Live QA
Date: Wednesday, November 12, 2025
Time: Doors open at 12:15 p.m.; Screening begins at 1:30 p.m.
Location: SCADshow, 1470 Spring St. NW, Atlanta, GA 30309
Tickets: Limited complimentary seats are available, and early registration is highly recommended.
Registration Link: Reserve here

About Monument Motion Picture

Founded in Atlanta, Monument Motion Picture LLC is dedicated to telling stories that resonate with civic impact. By focusing on cultural memory and ethical storytelling, they engage audiences in meaningful ways. The involvement of SCAD students in THE VANISHING exemplifies their commitment to fostering new talent while addressing important social issues.

As we approach the screening date, there’s a palpable excitement surrounding this significant project. THE VANISHING not only resurrects memories of Mary Shotwell Little but also reaffirms the necessity of dialogue about women's safety, justice, and historical awareness within our society. This collaboration between Monument Motion Picture and SCAD exemplifies how creative partnerships can illuminate haunting untold stories that deserve to be remembered and addressed.