Call For Papers

Ranging the Gaps: Approaching National Cinematic Histories through Incomplete Archives

(RtG 2026)

We invite submissions of 20-minute presentations that engage with the intersection of archives, cinema, and nation, particularly in ways that challenge hegemonic histories and/or put a spotlight on marginalised groups.

Themes may include (but are not limited to):

• Underacknowledged labour
• Archival gaps or exclusions
• Visibility and accessibility
• Archive focuses
• Feminist reclamations
• Anti-racist and decolonial archive work

Proposals should consist of a title and abstract of up to 300 words. Please include a short biography of up to 100 words. We are very happy to consider proposals for videographic essays, short films, and other diverse research forms.

Submit proposals here https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfw0qq2UI7JJ522ptjZDeqsU2BIwQCXYAA9RoFYf95vTkEvdw/viewform?usp=publish-editor or paste this link into your browser: https://forms.gle/nboE8R528oQVKfLB6.

Deadline: 2 January 2026

Acceptance emails will be sent on 4 February 2026

We encourage submissions from PGRs at NWCDTP-funded institutions (even if you yourself are not funded by the NWCDTP). We have a number of travel bursaries available for speakers and/or attendees from these institutions.

The event will take place in the Ellen Wilkinson Building (handicap accessible) at the University of Manchester on Monday, 13 April 2026. Whilst we welcome both online and in-person attendees, we ask that all speakers be able to present on the day in-person. See our website https://rangingthegaps.wixsite.com/2026 for more information.

Refreshments and lunch will be provided (vegetarian/vegan/halal options available).

Feel free to contact us if you have any questions:

Lillian: lillian.wang /at/ postgrad.manchester.ac.uk - Enquiries about CFP submission
Tillie: tillie.quattrone /at/ postgrad.manchester.ac.uk - Enquiries about the event (e.g., registration, access needs, travel reimbursements, day-of logistics)

/This symposium is supported by the Arts and Humanities Research Council through the North West Consortium Doctoral Training Partnership’s Cohort Development Fund./