Media Advisory: ‘Always On’ screening

A sneak peek of “Always On,” a feature length documentary chronicling several months in the life of Michael Quinn, a Myrtle Beach police detective with an off-duty ambition to make it big as a standup comedian, will be screened on March 21 at 7 p.m. in Pugh Auditorium on Wake Forest University’s Reynolda Campus.

Palmer Holton and Brent Richardson, students in Wake Forest University’s Documentary Film Program, directed the film.

The filmmakers, followed Quinn as he split his time between cracking cases and cracking jokes — exploring with him the nerve-racking world of open mic night competitions and how punch lines often times come from personal pain.

A first-time father in his 40s who in his day job faces gang violence, robberies, drugs and assaults, the documentary highlights how Quinn’s dangerous career affects his family life and how comedy provides much-needed balance.

Using notecards and a notebook, Quinn writes his material as the inspiration strikes. And, like any stand-up comic, he has good nights as well as some dreadful performances. Rather than focusing on his talent, the documentary shows Quinn’s passion for comedy and the role it plays in helping him cope with occupational and personal stress.

“Watching detective Quinn give 110 percent to his career, family, and his own individual pursuits, was, for Brent and I, a great reminder of just how much we can each get out of our daily lives as long as we maintain a positive attitude,” said Holton.

The screening is free and open to the public.

An “Always On” web quality poster is attached. For a print quality image, please contact Priscilla Wood in the Wake Forest University news office at 336-758-5237.

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About Wake Forest University

Wake Forest University combines the best traditions of a small liberal arts college with the resources of a large research university. Founded in 1834, the school is located in Winston-Salem, N.C. The University’s graduate school of arts and sciences, divinity school, and nationally ranked schools of law, medicine and business enrich our intellectual environment. Learn more about Wake Forest University at www.wfu.edu.

Categories: Campus Life, Media Advisory