An upcoming event in Utah will explore the portrayal of Native Americans in Western narratives through film screenings and discussions.

The American West Centre (AWC) is hosting a two-day film festival titled "Re-Imagining Native American Representation in the American Western" on January 17 and 18.

An AWC represenative said event is about "exploring the complex history of Native American representation in Western narratives".

On Friday evening, January 17, the festival will feature a screening of 'The Searchers,' an influential Hollywood Western.

The AWC representative said the opening event would include "a fascinating conversation between Professor Andrew Nelson and the talented writer, Glenn Frankel, as they delve into the making and reception of the iconic Western film, The Searchers".

Frankel, a Pulitzer Prize-winning author, will introduce the film and lead a post-screening Q&A.

He described the film as one that "depicts the terrible effects of hate and prejudice, and seems to say that life can only go on if one triumphs over these emotions".

He also highlights the film's ambiguity.

"You have to decide. And that's the art of the film."

The festival continues on Saturday afternoon, with a screening of the documentary 'Reel Injun: On the Trail of the Hollywood Indian'.

The depiction of Native Americans in mainstream American cinema has largely been shaped by ignorance and bigotry, particularly in the earlier decades of the industry.

'Reel Injun' examines how Native Americans have been portrayed in Hollywood over the years.

"At 2 pm, we'll continue our journey with a screening of the documentary 'Reel Injun' and a public Q&A session to discuss the evolving portrayal of Native Americans in Western narratives," the representative said.

Both events are free and open to the public, offering an opportunity to explore and reflect on the complex narratives that have shaped the perception of Native Americans in Western culture.