Mike Flanagan has emerged over the past fifteen years as one of the most prolific and recognizable horror creators in film and television, working across low-budget independent cinema, studio-backed films, and prestige limited series. Yet despite his prominence, versatility, and authorial trademarks, especially his collaborations with recurring actors and other artistic partners, he has received little sustained scholarly attention.

The annual graduate student conference organized by the Division of Cinema and Media Studies at the University of Southern California is now accepting applications. EXTENDED submission deadline is June 15, 2026.

This year’s conference invites proposals that engage broadly with the theme, Delirium. 

It will take place on October 23–24, 2026, at the University of Southern California in Los Angeles, with Professor Eugenie Brinkema joining for the Keynote. 

We welcome submissions from a wide range of disciplines and methodological approaches, including creative works.