Eastern Iowa Community Colleges (EICC) will host a special screening of “Blue Christmas” (2024), featuring an exclusive meet-and-greet with the film’s writer, director, and distinguished Muscatine Community College (MCC) alum, Max Allan Collins. The event will take place on Monday, Nov. 18, at 5 p.m. in MCC’s Black Box Theater, located at 152 Colorado St., Muscatine, IA. 

A Muscatine native, Collins is an acclaimed writer and filmmaker known for “Road to Perdition” (2002), “Mommy” (1995), and “Mommy’s Day” (1997). In “Blue Christmas,” Collins presents a unique, film-noir twist on a classic holiday tale set in 1940s Chicago. The story follows private investigator Richard Stone on a haunting Christmas Eve journey as ghostly visitors—including Bonnie Parker, a WWII soldier, and Elvis Presley—guide him through his past, present, and future, ultimately helping him uncover his partner’s killer and seek redemption. 

Filming took place at MCC’s Black Box Theatre over an intense six-day schedule, with Collins directing from his own script. Cinematography was led by Phillip W. Dingeldein of DPhilms, and production and editing were managed by Chad T. Bishop of Dreampost Media Services. The film stars Rob Merritt as Richard Stone, Alisabeth Von Presley as Bonnie Parker, and Chris Causey as Jacob Marley, with a supporting cast of 24 actors from the Quad Cities, Cedar Rapids, and Muscatine. 

“We’re thrilled to bring ‘Blue Christmas’ to MCC, showcasing the work of our outstanding alum Max Allan Collins,” said MCC President Naomi DeWinter. “This screening is truly a celebration of creative storytelling and Muscatine’s talent, with our own campus as an integral part of the film.” 

Event Details 

  • Date: Monday, Nov. 18 
  • Time: 5 p.m. 
  • Location: Black Box Theatre, Strahan Hall 
    Muscatine Community College, 152 Colorado St., Muscatine, IA 
  • Admission: Free and open to the public 

Post-Screening Reception  
Following the screening, guests are invited to a reception with light refreshments and the unique opportunity to connect with Collins, ask questions, and hear behind-the-scenes insights about the making of “Blue Christmas.” 

Watch the film’s trailer and read the full synopsis on IMDb. 

Questions? We’re here to help. Contact us at eiccinfoFREEEICC or 563-288-6001.