The W, MSMS to host film screening
Mississippi University for Women’s Department of History, Political Science and Geography, in conjunction with The Mississippi School for Mathematics and Science will host a screening of the new film, “Citizens Revival,” Tuesday, Oct. 27 at 6 p.m. in Nissan Auditorium on The W’s campus.
The free event will include a screening of the film, followed by a half-hour Q&A with the director, Becca Finley.
“Having the opportunity not only to screen this new film, but also to meet the director, makes this a truly special event,” said Dr. Chanley Rainey, director of the Center for Women’s Research & Public Policy at The W. “Students I’ve spoken with are very excited about getting the chance to meet the filmmaker and learn what it takes to produce a film like this and to build a successful career in the arts. Even for those who aren’t planning to work in the arts, I think Rebecca’s work is interesting and inspiring.”
Using a combination of cinema verité, traditional interviews, collaborative live events and subject-led discussions, “Citizens Revival” shines a light on the diverse ways in which Americans are thinking about civic participation and what education for democratic citizenship should look like today. Filmed across the country during the 2024 presidential election season, the film features 120 different voices–40 Republicans, 40 Democrats and 40 Independents–and showcases opportunities for everyone to be more engaged.
Finley has a 30-year history in the entertainment industry including live event production, publishing, festival programming, nonprofits and theater.
She serves as the artistic director of the Oxford Film Festival and has earned multiple awards and recognitions for her work, including a 2022 regional Emmy nomination for her FEMA Hazard Series and selection as a Media Arts Fellow by the Mississippi Arts Commission.
The event is part of the ongoing America 250 event series celebrating the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence.
“As we come to the end of a year spent celebrating the Declaration of Independence’s 250th anniversary and prepare for midterm elections, this film feels especially relevant,” Rainey said. “All year, we’ve been reflecting on the revolutionary ideals of liberty and equality and the conviction that self-government, though hard, is worth the struggle. ‘Citizens Revival’ showcases the different ways in which Americans all across the country and the political spectrum are seeking to build community and strengthen our democracy from the ground up. The film acknowledges the challenges, but I think everyone who joins us will leave a little more inspired to embrace their power as active participants in the American experiment. “ to build community and strengthen our democracy from the ground up. The film acknowledges the challenges, but I think everyone who joins us will leave a little more inspired to embrace their power as active participants in the American experiment.”