Women’s Studies Program Presents Film Series

9/24/2009

The University of Mount Saint Vincent Women’s Studies Program will host “Representing Women: A Film/Discussion Series,” starting October 8, which will feature two films per semester. All the films highlight the perceptions of women and how they are viewed in our society. The first film, Barbie Nation: An Unauthorized Tour, will be shown at 4:30 p.m. in the President’s Reception Room in the Administration Building. The films are brought to the Mount by a grant provided through the New York Council for the Humanities.

Barbie Nation is a documentary about the Barbie Doll phenomenon America experienced for the greater part of the 20th century.  The film follows Barbie conventions to anti-Barbie demonstrations, from San Francisco’s gay pride parade to Croatia’s war-torn bunkers. It informs its audience about how the doll has evolved over the years, and social perceptions of women that have arisen because of Barbie’s hyper-feminine image.

Since originally being aired on PBS, Barbie Nation: An Unauthorized Tour has aired at over 1,000 institutions of higher education. “It’s a great way to kick off this film series because it highlights how women are seen in our society, especially because Barbie has a lot to do with that,” said Dr. Daniel Opler, Assistant Professor of History and Advisor to the new Women’s Studies Club. Katie Cornacchia, Mount student and member of the nascent Women’s Studies Club said, “we are jumping on the notion of Barbie Nation because of the ideologies surrounding women the film presents.”

Upcoming Films:

November 12, 2009: Pain, Passion, and Profit

From the director of Bend it Like Beckham comes an in-depth look at global feminism and economic development as well as a personal and spirited view of the experiences of women entrepreneurs.

February 4, 2010: Ida B. Wells: A Passion for Justice

This film documents the dramatic life and turbulent times of the pioneering African American journalist, activist, suffragist and anti-lynching crusader.  “A powerful account of the life of one of the earliest heroes in the Civil Rights Movement.” —Chicago Sun-Times

March 25, 2010: The Life and Times of Rosie the Riveter

Five former “Rosies” recall their experiences working in factories during the Second World War. “A marvelous film about war work…the most forceful feminist documentary in recent years.”—David Denby, New York Magazine.

All films are free and open to the public and will begin at 4:30 P.M. in the President’s Reception Room in the Administration Building, Second Floor.