Call for Papers: Archives, Cinema, and Collective Healing – Submit by March 2, 2025

Dear ladies and gentlemen,

We are honored to invite you to participate in the hybrid conference “Archives, Cinema, and Collective Healing: Preserving Memory Through Film”, organized by Creatrix Fama and the “I.L. Caragiale” National University of Theatre and Film (UNATC). This event will take place during the fifth edition of the Film O’Clock International Festival, a global cinematic event featuring synchronized screenings in 11 countries.

The conference seeks to bring together doctoral candidates, researchers, and practitioners in a global dialogue exploring the intersection of cinema, memory, and collective healing. It will delve into how cinema, through its interplay with visual archives and cultural heritage, serves as a vital medium for representing, processing, and understanding historical and social trauma. Whether through documentary, narrative, animation, or experimental forms, storytelling invites audiences to reflect on shared histories, fostering understanding and pathways toward reconciliation and healing.

We encourage submissions that offer original research, case studies, or innovative artistic approaches, showcasing the transformative potential of cinema in collective memory and healing. Presentations should be in English and adhere to the following application guidelines:

• Title

• Abstract (300 words)

• Bio (250 words)

Applications must be submitted via the online form available here: https://bit.ly/40u0bYv. The deadline for submissions is March 2, 2025, and accepted applicants will be notified by March 10, 2025. Each presentation will be limited to 15 minutes, followed by a 5-minute Q&A session.

In addition, participants will be invited to submit their work for publication in one of UNATC’s peer-reviewed journals, which promote academic and artistic research in theater, film, and interdisciplinary studies. The articles must follow these guidelines:

• Abstract: 150–200 words

• Keywords: 5–10

• Length: Minimum 2,500 words

• Language: English

• Referencing Style: APA (7th edition)

• Illustrations: Included in the text and provided separately as .jpg files

• Deadline for Articles: May 31, 2025

The overarching theme of the conference is “The Role of Archives and Cinema in Collective Healing: Preserving Memory Through Film”, addressing how cinema and archival practices contribute to preserving collective memory and fostering reconciliation.

Potential Topics Include:

• Archives and cultural heritage as tools for preserving collective memory through cinema

• Creative uses of archival materials in narrating trauma

• The role of documentary, narrative, and experimental cinema in representing and preserving memory

• Cross-cultural perspectives on trauma and its cinematic representation

• Cinematic approaches to articulating social ruptures and historical reflection

• The evolution of visual language in films addressing trauma and healing

• Political and social influences on cinematic narratives of memory and reconciliation

• Found footage and its role in reconstructing collective memory

The Conference is part of the fifth edition of the Film O’Clock International Festival, organized by Creatrix Fama and co-financed by The Administration of the National Cultural Fund in Romania (AFCN). It is aligned with the mission of Creatrix Fama, the organizer of the Film O’Clock International Festival, which has become a significant cultural bridge between Europe and Africa. What began in 2021 with five countries is now a global festival, encompassing 11 nations and uniting diverse cultures through cinema. Film O’Clock offers a platform for simultaneous screenings, live Q&A sessions, online conferences, and masterclasses, creating a unique cross-cultural space for filmmakers and audiences alike.

We look forward to your participation in this meaningful exchange of ideas and encourage you to share this invitation with colleagues who may be interested. Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Warm regards,
Mirona Radu
research assistant – “I.L. Caragiale” National University of Theatre and Film (UNATC)
festival director – Film O’Clock International Festival

Email: mirona.radu@unatc.ro