In this episode of Who’s in My Class?, we talk with Mario Cerrito III, a multi–award-winning horror filmmaker from South Jersey whose films have gained worldwide acclaim. From his breakout feature Deadly Gamble to his internationally distributed Human Hibachi franchise—now represented by the legendary Troma Entertainment—Mario has proven that you don’t need Hollywood to make a name in film.

Starting with no formal training, no funding, and no connections, Mario built his career through sheer determination and creative grit—overcoming the odds to see his work featured on major streaming platforms and in physical media stores across the globe. Now, after years of professional success, he’s come full circle—returning to RCBC, where his journey first began as a student-athlete in 2003.

In this conversation, Mario shares his story of perseverance, independent filmmaking, and community connection—how staying true to his roots in New Jersey helped him carve out a global career, and why coming back to RCBC to finish his degree feels like the perfect sequel.