Brookdale Alum Khalil J. Walker’s short film Pass Da Mic has been officially selected for the upcoming Garden State Film Festival, joining its growing list of accolades, including recognition at the 2025 San Diego Black Film Festival.
The film will be featured in the Drama | Student College, University Film category and is set to screen at Cranford Theater on Saturday, March 29, from 6:15 p.m. to 8:30 p.m.
Set against the backdrop of the Jersey Shore’s rap scene, Pass Da Mic follows brothers Jamal and Malcolm as they face off in a powerful lyrical showdown at Neptune Skatepark. The story unpacks themes of identity, family legacy, and redemption. Though currently a short film, Walker hopes to expand it into a full-length feature or series to further explore its characters and themes.
Walker began his filmmaking journey at Brookdale Community College, where he studied from 2018 to 2020. Originally a business major, he shifted to media and communications to reconnect with his creative roots. “I explored various courses, from journalism to audio engineering,” he said, “but a television production class changed everything. Directing a segment felt natural and deeply fulfilling.”
During his time at Brookdale, Walker was actively involved in student life, serving in Student Government and as Vice President of the Black Student Union. “We revitalized the club by hosting weekly conversations on Black culture, society, and history,” he recalled.
After Brookdale, Walker joined the Marines to broaden his experiences, then continued his education at the School of Visual Arts, where he graduated with high honors in 2024 with a focus on Directing and Producing. He is currently pursuing his Master of Fine Arts at Columbia University.
Pass Da Mic is a heartfelt homage to both hip-hop and Walker’s late grandfather, who played a pivotal role in his life. “He passed in 2023 and was like a father to me,” Walker shared. “Before his passing, he helped fund this project. Through the film, I wanted to honor his memory and explore Black boyhood, family complexities, and the challenge of accepting someone’s imperfections at the end of their life.”
The Garden State Film Festival’s inclusion of Pass Da Mic underscores Walker’s emergence as a compelling new voice in filmmaking.
For screening details and the full festival schedule, visit schedule.gsff.org.
About the Garden State Film Festival 2025 (GSFF)
The Garden State Film Festival (GSFF) is New Jersey’s Premier Independent Film Festival, a globally recognized celebration of cinematic excellence. As it enters its 23rd year, GSFF continues to honor New Jersey’s rich legacy as the birthplace of film while serving as a vital platform for filmmakers, industry professionals, and cinephiles alike. With over 200 films from 16 countries showcased across 9 venues, this four-day festival offers an unparalleled cinematic experience filled with screenings, panel discussions, networking opportunities, and exclusive events.
Key Highlights:
- Over 200 films from around the world.
- 49 events, +40 live podcasts over 9 venues across Asbury Park, Monmouth County & Cranford, Union County, NJ.
- Filmmaker networking, live podcasts, industry panels.
- Celebrity appearances and special events.
- Exclusive after-parties and celebrations.
Festival Schedule Overview & Link to Events