Join us for a special introduction by filmmaker Eric Daniel Metzgar before the 6:30 PM screening on Friday, October 23. A post-screening Q&A moderated by Diana Cervera, Director of Programs & Community Engagement /SD Latino Film Festival, will follow.

Synopsis: More than 200 years after George Washington described the United States’ new system of democracy as the last great experiment in promoting human happiness in civil society, filmmakers Steve Maing (2x Oscar-shortlisted director for Union and Crime + Punishment) and Eric Daniel Metzgar check up on how that is unfolding for our indivisible Republic. Traversing the nation over a four-year period during the tenure of the nation’s 45th president, Maing and Metzgar observe deep and often fractious conflict among citizens, many of whom hold deeply personal interpretations of the founding fathers’ vision. Yet through their objective, calm, and even-handed approach, the filmmakers offer a counterpoint to the daily hysteria of public discourse. Each morning marks a new dawn in America, and the great experiment endures—sustained by the optimism, hopes, and dreams of its people.

“A remarkable artistic work capturing a historic turning point in the political landscape, affecting all of us. With cinematic precision and emotional depth, THE GREAT EXPERIMENT lays bare the profound divides within American society, becoming an essential witness – not only of this moment, but of the future it will inevitably shape.”‍ ‍ – CPH:DOX Film Festival Jury

Showtimes

Friday, October 23, 2026: 6:30 PM (Filmmaker Intro + Q&A w/ Eric Daniel Metzgar)
Saturday, October 24, 2026: 10:30 AM
Sunday, October 25, 2026: No showtimes
Monday, October 26, 2026: No showtimes
Tuesday, October 27, 2026:  2:00 PM
Wednesday, October 28, 2026: No showtimes
Thursday, October 29, 2026: No showtimes

Ticket Prices: $13 Regular / $11 Students & Seniors / $9 Members
Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F9w33jlmB1s