Roxie First Looks: Shorts Program #6

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.

Architects of Change
Director: Keith Young

Synopsis: Architects of Change follows politician Keith Young and activist Robert Thomas as they fight for reparative justice after George Floyd’s murder. The documentary traces their journey from grassroots activism to Asheville’s historic reparations resolution—the first in the South—and their work in Tulsa to secure an apology for the 1921 Greenwood Massacre. Through personal struggles and political battles, the film captures their fight for restitution and its impact on the national conversation.

Running Time: 37min and 22 secs

Far from Home
Director: Ankita M. Kumar

Synopsis: Samira Faizi and her family escaped to India from Afghanistan in 2021, right before the Taliban takeover. She is now grappling with the possibility of being stuck forever, as slow asylum processes and the lack of a refugee law in India threaten her existence.

Running time: 32 mins