An Anthology Concerning the Role of Nature and the Environment in Film and Television Representations of the American West(s)

Deadline: November 1, 2003

The first "westerns" were filmed in the wilderness of New Jersey and then (Eureka) moviemakers discovered California. This anthology will examine the use of western landscape (Monument Valley, etc.), the "role" of nature in film and television westerns, how western environment affects presentation of regional character and dramatic characters, and how the natural world has been constructed, both figuratively and literally--on sound stage or through creative cinematography.

Submissions may discuss specific films of any era, from silent film or talkies, from representaions of the American colonial west to the "pioneers" of Silicon Valley. There are many critical lenses that may be applied here. Commentaries on Spaghetti Westerns and other international films are welcome. The focus of this anthology will be to present the mutitiple cinematic views of the American West(s).

Send completed papers (25 pages maximum, double spaced) to the address below. Inquiries my be directed via email.