McElhinney’s first feature "Magdalen" was well-reviewed in 1998 for its fresh concept, black and white camerawork from cinematographer Abe Holtz and its cast led by Alix D. Smith. The movie is about "a world-weary young woman who earns her living in a bar, telling stories to lonely people for money." Philadelphia Weekly wrote of the movie that, "Smith’s presence on-screen is fascinating, unromantic and tough. The film itself unravels languidly, with stylish, moody back-and-white photograph from local cinematographer Abe Holtz." The original camera negative is in the permanent collection of MoMA-The Museum of Modern Art, New York, object number 23982.