Three Wayang Golek puppets — traditional Indonesian rod puppets from West Java — are arrayed side by side in a photograph by Nydia del Carmen, a junior majoring in film and media studies. Light encircles each puppet against a black background. A filmmaker, del Carmen initially was concerned that a still image would drain puppets of their life. 

“Yet, as I worked through the process, it felt as though they animated themselves — demanding to retain their vitality,” she said.

“Looking at the final photograph, I can’t help but feel that the puppets are more alive than ever. It was a strange, uncanny experience for me, and I still don’t know what to make of the photograph.”

Prior to the screening, Nydia del Carmen ’26, president of the Yale Film Society and also a YTV editor for the News, moderated a conversation with Edwards at a Pierson College Tea. 

At the tea, Edwards spoke about his journey in the film industry.  

“Interviewing Gareth was a dream come true,” del Carmen said. “Gareth emphasized the failures he had to endure to get to where he was. I think that really resonated with a lot of young filmmakers within the event. At least for my part it was very inspiring to hear.”

Among the live musical show casings was Nydia del Carmen ’26, an undergrad with prior experience performing at Sweet Spot. Word is out about this talented musician, and the audience welcomed her to the stage with uproarious applause.

Nydia did not disappoint as she poured her spirit into the lyrics and “her voice flowed out across the room like melted butter,” commented Trevor Brokowski ’29MS, on his first Sweet Spot experience in his first year here at Yale.