The Athena Cinema’s “From the Hills and Hollers: Appalachian Stories Film Series” offers more than just entertainment. It provides a window into the heart and soul of Appalachia. The film series, organized by Tiffany Arnold and Alexandra Kamody, brings Ohio University students and Athens city residents together to engage with the region's rich cultural legacy.
The series fosters conversations about the lives, struggles and triumphs of people in Appalachia, shining a light on the complexity of an often misunderstood region. It’s an opportunity for people who might live side by side but have never truly understood each other’s experiences to watch films and discuss the realities of Appalachian life.
What sets the “From the Hills and Hollers” series apart is its deep connection to the people and stories it represents.
Filmmaker Talcon Quinn, who works on projects highlighting health issues in Appalachia, spoke at the event held Jan. 30, which featured screenings of their film “Reclaiming,” which explores the sexual and reproductive health traditions of Appalachia, alongside Lindsay Martin’s personal animated film “Pottero,” which focuses on mental health. Quinn said they see the series as a crucial connection between the university and the local community.
“I think people on campus, both faculty and students, are unaware of the struggles that those of us from Appalachia are facing right in their backyard, and we’re unaware of the struggles that they’re facing,” Quinn said. “Programs like the Hills and Hollers Series are in my opinion one of the bridges that can help us create stronger connections, so that we are more deeply intertwined.”
The series doesn’t just screen films. Each event begins with an introduction by experts who provide context for the film and explore the deeper issues behind its portrayal of Appalachian culture. Afterward, guest speakers engage with the audience during Q&A sessions to dive deeper into the film's themes and their relevance to the community.
Rebecca Robinson-Miller, senior director of community relations for Ohio University’s College of Health Sciences and Professions, believes these conversations are key to understanding Appalachian culture.
“Honest understanding of any culture is important,” Robinson-Miller said. “If you compare some of the positives and negatives of Appalachian culture to other areas of the country and even of the world, I think you would find a lot of similarities.”
The series also gives students a rare opportunity to connect with Appalachia’s history and culture outside the classroom. Eric A. Wagner Associate Professor Rachel Terman, who specializes in Appalachian Studies at OU, said by attending the series students can deepen their understanding and connection to the region's heritage.
“The more opportunities that are available to students to interact with the Appalachian culture, the more meaningful their degree and their time spent in college will be,” Terman said.
Terman said she believes the series helps foster stronger bonds between OU and the local community, where both groups can learn from each other’s unique perspectives.
“Thinking about what we can do as individuals in our local community and knowing the power of our community is very important,” Terman said. “That’s what this film series is all about.”
Looking Ahead: Upcoming Films in the Series
The “From the Hills and Hollers” series continues with two additional important films this spring:
March 6, 2025, 7:00 p.m. - HEROIN(E)Presented by Rebecca Robinson-Miller, this documentary explores the opioid epidemic that has devastated Appalachia. It highlights the work of three women fighting against the heroin crisis in their communities.
April 17, 2025, 7:00 p.m. - NORMA RAEPresented by Dr. Rachel Terman, this Academy Award-winning film tells the story of Norma Rae, a textile worker who becomes a union activist to improve working conditions in her factory. The film is a powerful exploration of labor, gender and the struggles of working-class Americans.
These screenings offer more than just a chance to watch a film. The Athena aims to provide an opportunity to engage in meaningful conversations about the history, challenges and strengths of Appalachia.
Community leaders like Robinson-Miller and Terman see the series as an essential part of ongoing efforts to address important regional issues. Robinson-Miller said the strengths of Appalachia that often go unrecognized in media portrayals.
“There are so many strengths in Appalachia,” Robinson-Miller said. “Every culture, every place, has deficits and strengths, but sometimes the media approaches Appalachia from the deficit-based mindset and I think it's really important that we show another side of that.”
“From the Hills and Hollers” creates lasting change, one story at a time. Mark your calendars, and join the conversation.
For tickets, visit athenacinema.com/appalachian/.
Sponsored Content: This article is paid content created in partnership with The Post and The Athena Cinema. The editorial staff of The Post played no role in the creation of this article and its content.
