Browse films

Across the Tracks

Michael Cooke
United States, 2015, 15 min.

In English.
Includes adult language.

Two African American sisters grow up in racially charged 1960s Georgia. But one is born with light skin. When schools integrate in their small town, she decides to change her destiny - by passing for white.

Director's Statement

Most of us have suffered prejudice, struggled with identity and our place in this world. But in a politically charged climate, this is a very different struggle. In our film, young Ella is not noble. She doesn't make a choice for the Greater Good or take a stand against Tyranny. She is just a girl pursuing her American Dream. The choice she makes may not be the choice we all would, but passing for white at the time meant the difference between being free and being at the back of the bus. And it's a choice she has to live with the rest of her life. What choice would you make? We wrote this film to pay respect to the folks who stood together, changed the laws and redefined our lives. It wasn't an easy choice to make, but we are grateful they made them.

Category: Drama.
Themes: Identity, Youth.

More in Drama

  • Edge of Space

    Edge of Space

    Jean de Meuron
    United States, 2024, 18 min.

    Set in 1961, during the height of the US-Soviet space race, an ambitious USAF test pilot is recruited by NASA for a daring suborbital mission in an X-15... more ›

  • Small Town Rock Stars

    Small Town Rock Stars

    Daniel Ratcliff
    United States, 2025, 9 min.

    Will cannot face another day of bullying in school when Ben suggests they skip for the day. As they roam around town they make discoveries about themselves and... more ›

  • Arillo de Hombre Muerto (Dead Man's Switch)

    Arillo de Hombre Muerto (Dead Man's Switch)

    Alejandro Gerber Bicecci
    Mexico, 2024, 108 min.

    Dalia (42), discovers that her husband has vanished without a trace. As her life and her job as a subway driver begin to collapse; the violent indifference of... more ›