‘Red, White and Blue’ Review: Humanizing a Polarizing Issue

Few films manage to make the personal political as effectively as “Red, White and Blue.” The Academy Award-nominated short film originally premiered at a film festival in 2023. It tackles increasingly prevalent themes such as abortion and women’s healthcare. This film doesn’t simply ask its audience to listen — it demands they feel the weight of its story.

Written and directed by Nazrin Choudhury, the film takes an intimate look at a mother-daughter duo navigating a world shaped by restrictive abortion laws. Rachel (Brittany Snow) is a single mother living in Arkansas. Due to Arkansas’s strict abortion laws, Rachel and her young daughter Maddy (Juliet Donenfield) have to cross state lines to Illinois when Maddy, age 10, needs an abortion after an assault.

Choudhury crafts a film that is as visually subtle as it is emotionally powerful. Adam Suschitzky’s cinematography employs natural lighting, which mirrors the stark realism of the characters’ journey. Each shot feels deliberate, pulling the viewer into Rachel and Maddy’s world.

The pacing occasionally lingers, with these slower moments adding depth to the story. Road trip segments emphasize Maddy’s fleeting innocence — a heartbreaking contrast to the decision she must face. These scenes aren’t just filler — they deepen the narrative’s emotional resonance and drive home the film’s central message.

The acting performances are some of the strongest points of “Red, White and Blue.” Brittany Snow, known for her comedic roles like Chloe in “Pitch Perfect,” delivers an emotionally moving performance as Rachel. Her portrayal of quiet resilience and unwavering love is both raw and authentic. Juliet Donenfeld’s performance as Maddy is equally compelling, capturing the complexity of a child forced to grapple with unimaginable trauma. Together, their chemistry anchors the film, making its most devastating moments feel heartbreakingly real.

Choudhury’s script also stands out. The dialogue feels painfully authentic, and the narrative’s emotional beats land with precision. By focusing on the personal rather than the overt political messages, the film avoids preaching and instead invites empathy. It is a story that lingers long after viewers have finished the film.

“Red, White and Blue” is a rare blend of artistry and advocacy, delivering a captivating exploration of one of the most pressing issues of our time. Through its compelling performances, thoughtful direction, and emotionally resonant story, it succeeds in humanizing a polarizing issue. Nazrin Choudhury has created a short film that doesn’t just tell a story — it demands attention, empathy, and action. With its visual subtlety and emotional depth, it stands as a necessary and unforgettable piece of work, more than worthy of an Academy Award nomination.

—Staff writer Rachel A. Beard can be reached at rachel.beard@thecrimson.com.