The Dying Sensation (PSA)
A flare for collegiate men's gymnastics
"The Dying Sensation" is a short docu-style film following six current or former NCAA gymnasts as they address the current state of the sport and the bleak appearance of its future.
The athletes featured are Sam Phillips (Nebraska), Zac Tiderman (Nebraska, formerly Iowa), Donte McKinney (Nebraska, formerly Minnesota), Alec Yoder (Ohio State), Evan Manivong (Illinois), and Michael Jaroh (Penn State).
TDS is a PSA, meant for informational and educational purpose only ---broadcast clips used fall under the Fair Use doctrine.
TDS appeared in two film festivals during its festival circuit run; Flatwater (2023) and Omaha (2024). The short film premiered at the Nebby Awards at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln as Izzy Pineda's senior capstone project. The film won Best Documentary among the selections.
A note from Izzy --
Although this piece is close to my heart, I admit there are so many things I wish I could change within the film now.
That being said, I wrote, directed, shot and edited this short film to finish my degree as a senior while working full-time. For the time constraints and circumstances of when it was made -- I am proud of it and its message.
This sport and community is uniquely special. I've never seen anything like it.