WACO, Texas (FOX 44— The Baylor professors who created the short film “Ado,” which is receiving Oscar attention, will be showing the film at the Mayborn Museum this Sunday, January 18th, 2026 at 2 p.m.
Produced by Sam Henderson and Maverick Moore, two faculty members from Baylor University’s Film and Digital Media department, the short film ‘Ado’ has been nominated for an Oscar. The movie has garnered favorable feedback and numerous accolades during the year, such as the HBO Short Film Award Showcase at the American Black Film Festival. As Henderson mentioned, securing that showcase was the first moment he recognized the film’s potential.
You can ask Maverick, I didn’t think we were going to win,” Henderson said. “It was truly an otherworldly moment. I mean, they called our name, they said Ado. And I was on the edge of crying.
The movie focuses on a short and powerful encounter between Ms. Hopkins, portrayed by Jenifer Lewis, and an unhappy ex-student, played by Zach Lane. Bringing in Jenifer Lewis was not only surprising, but at first, Henderson wasn’t certain if she was suitable for the part.
I believe she was highly skilled, but I didn’t feel she would be a good fit for what we needed,” said Henderson. “It wasn’t until I began reviewing videos of her previous work, especially interviews, that I noticed something in her demeanor. There was a sense of depth and emotional weight in her presence that I found intriguing.
Both Henderson and Moore bring prior experience from the film industry, yet neither has ever come this near to an Oscar. The emotion they’re feeling is nearly too much for both of them.
I mean, there aren’t really words for me to describe what the feeling is like,” said Moore. “Just speechless.
This movie marked the initial time that Henderson and Moore collaborated on a project. They have been close friends for more than ten years and were hesitant to jeopardize their friendship by working on a film together. Now that the film has been completed and received recognition, Henderson acknowledges Moore as a crucial element in their achievement.
Obviously, it’s easy now to say there are absolutely no regrets,” said Henderson. “I know he’s probably the best person for the job, but I also don’t want to disrupt, you know, the relationship we’ve built over the last ten years or more as friends just because of this silly movie or something. But yeah, it’s worked out. It’s worked out wonderfully.
The movie is currently on the Oscar Shortlist for Best Live Action Short Film, with the nominees scheduled to be revealed on January 22nd.
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