ODU Libraries Unveils ‘Western Frontiers and Futurities’ Spring 2026 Screening Series, Seeks Diverse Contributors
Old Dominion University (ODU) Libraries’ Naro Video is launching its spring 2026 “Naro Minded” screening series. The series is themed “Western Frontiers and Futurities.” Organizers seek speakers, musicians, performers, and filmmakers. Local and ODU-affiliated contributors are preferred. Robin Blount Wilson at ODU Libraries is the main point of contact.
Exploring the American West Through Film
The “Western Frontiers and Futurities” theme invites a deep dive. It examines gender and race in the American West. Trans histories and Asian American experiences are central topics. These explorations connect to broader academic trends. They encourage new investigations into regional history.
The Naro Video Collection: A Rich Resource
The foundation of this series is the Naro Video collection. ODU Libraries received this vast archive. It contains over 42,000 titles. Former owners Tim Cooper and Linda McGreevy donated it in 2020. Their aim was to preserve diverse and lesser-known films. The collection officially opened at ODU in March 2024. It is now accessible for teaching and research. The “Naro Minded” series brings this collection to public screenings.
Specific Screenings and Submission Interests
Each screening date has distinct thematic interests. On February 19, “Blazing Saddles” (1974) will be shown. The series seeks experts on parody, race, and gender. Local BIPOC filmmakers are encouraged to submit short works.
March 26 features “Ballad of Little Jo” (1993). This screening focuses on gender and race in the Western genre. Discussions on trans histories and Asian American West experiences are welcomed. Local trans and AAPI filmmakers and performers can submit short films or music.
April 14 presents “Back to the Future III” (1990). Topics may include nostalgia and the speculative Western. Collaborations involving Parkinson’s awareness are also desired.
Finally, May 19 screens “Westworld” (1973). This event explores race and gender in speculative fiction. It also expresses interest in robotics and AI collaborations. Short works utilizing innovative technologies are sought.
Community Collaboration and Future Investigations
ODU Libraries is keen to partner with student groups. Academic departments are also invited to collaborate. These partnerships can enrich the series’ programming. The series encourages ongoing investigations into the West. It seeks to illuminate current dialogues. Contributors can reach Robin Blount Wilson at rbwilson@odu.edu.
