PAMLA 2026 is pleased to present A Ryan Coogler Roundtable: Reimagining Black Futures and Histories (https://pamla.ballastacademic.com/Home/S/20119)! Panel Description: "A Ryan Coogler Roundtable: Reimagining Black Futures and Histories" expects to bring together scholars to examine the cinematic contributions of Ryan Coogler, whose body of work has redefined contemporary Black filmmaking through its engagement with history, community, and speculative futures. Focusing on key films such as Fruitvale Station, Creed, Black Panther, and Sinners, participants will explore how Coogler navigates genres while maintaining a consistent commitment to Black subjectivity and political consciousness.

The discussion will consider how Coogler constructs narratives of Black masculinity/femininity, intergenerational memory, and systemic injustice, as well as how his collaborations with actors such as Michael B. Jordan contribute to a coherent artistic vision. By placing Coogler’s films in conversation with broader traditions in Black cinema and cultural production, this roundtable aims to assess his role in reshaping popular film as a site of political expression and cultural affirmation. Ultimately, the session invites a critical dialogue on the possibilities and limits of mainstream filmmaking in articulating Black pasts, presents, and futures.

The extended deadline for paper proposals is June 30 or when filled! You can also browse our more than 100+ open sessions here (https://pamla.ballastacademic.com/Home/CFP)! For more information about our annual PAMLA conference (held at the Hyatt Regency Seattle, Nov 12-15), visit our conference site (https://www.pamla.org/pamla2026)!