Faulkner: The Past is Never Dead

History regards William Faulkner, the 1949 Nobel Prize winner in Literature, as one of the greatest writers of the modern era, with words and stories that continue to challenge and inspire generations of readers and writers worldwide. Narrated by and starring Academy Award-nominee Eric Roberts, Faulkner: The Past is Never Dead is first documentary to explore the storied and complex legacy of the iconic writer.

Born into a family of segregationists, Faulkner manages to confront his views about Black Americans and racial equality in his literary works. However, the question remains regarding how modern audiences should approach a renowned-yet-flawed literary figure. Director Michael Modak-Truran offers a nuanced approach of these contradictory and layered elements of Faulkner’s life through a blend of re-enactments and interviews, immersing audiences in a fresh interpretation of his life and work.

Discussion with executive producer Anita Modak-Truran. Moderated by Stephen Railton (UVA).

Critical Conversations From Page to Screen

Date

Sunday, October 29

Time

4:45 PM

Location

Violet Crown 5