Roxie First Looks #7

First Looks, the Roxie’s Oscar-Qualifying Theatrical Release program, supports filmmakers in their Academy Award quest. We put together a unique lineup of shorts (with running times of 40 minutes and under) from any genre (documentary, narrative, and animation) to serve as the film’s Academy qualifying run. 

Filmmakers interested in participating can check out more info here.

Liminality
Director: Tess Bliven
Synopsis: In the summer of 2004, in Berkeley, California, queer teens Nina and Jay grapple with understanding Jay’s uncharted transgender identity amidst the throes of first love.
Running Time: 13m 30s

On Healing Land, Birds Perch (Đất Lành, Chim Đậu)
Director: Naja Phạm Lockwood
Synopsis: ON HEALING LAND, BIRDS PERCH is a short documentary that tells the remarkable stories
behind one of the most iconic Pulitzer Prize winning photos in history and explores the
continuing aftershocks of the Vietnam War from the perspectives of both sides.
Running Time: 33m

Don’t be late, Myra
Director: Afia Serena Nathaniel
Synopsis: Inspired by true events in Pakistan, 10-year-old Myra must find her way home after missing her school van but she runs into trouble as some men start harassing her on the streets.
Running Time: 14m 58s

Hands
Director: Artem Martirosian
Synopsis: Just a few inches between his hand and hers become an entire world of dangers and fantastic adventures. Without words, told only through the expressive language of hands, this animated short reveals an epic battle with inner fears—all within a single brief minute of anticipation. Can he cross the inner abyss and finally take a step toward happiness?
Running Time: 3m 48s

Once More, Like Rain Man
Director: Sue Ann Pien
Synopsis: Once More, Like Rain Man follows Zoe, a 13-year-old Autistic actor, as she frustratingly bounces from audition to audition in attempts to be cast as autistic characters – only to be told she’s, “Not what we’re looking for”. Based on the real-life experiences of Bella Zoe Martinez, the film shares a timely, authentic, and often painful window into the world of how people with autism and other disabilities are depicted in the studio system and Hollywood.
Running Time: 15m

Heartbeat
Director: Jay Rosenblatt and Stephanie Rapp
Synopsis: This emotionally raw and intimate documentary, shot 25 years ago, follows a couple – the filmmakers – in their complicated journey towards bringing a new life into the world.  In today’s landscape of reproductive rights, this story takes on a new meaning and offers a rare view into this moment in their lives.
Running Time: 30m 49s