Reviews & Quotes | In The Red

The International Association of Black Professional Firefighters, Washington D.C. | President
“The struggles our young men and women face are all too real in America today. Their story can be told thousands of times in every urban setting across this country. My organization and I applaud you and your cohorts for the undertaking of this magnificent film. It is very real and true of what we, as African American firefighters, have faced for years in our communities to become firefighters. Our attempt to tell our story has fallen on deaf ears.”

The Chronicle for Social Change
"This film will show jurisdictions around the country what is possible when young people caught up in the justice system are given opportunity, resources and support.”

Splash Magazine | Lady Beverly Cohn, Film Critic
“With the beautiful opening shot of Oakland, California, I had a hunch this was going to be a compelling feature-length documentary. Chakarova’s sharp direction sprinkles in wonderful drawings of the action illustrating specific moments in the narrative, nicely supported by Raphael Saadiq’s lively sound track.”

The Voice
“Shot over the course of eleven years, In the Red chronicles the ups and downs, successes and failures, triumphs and challenges faced by individuals fighting to provide a better life for themselves and others. In light of ongoing hardships in California, Chakarova said she feels this story couldn’t have been shared at a better time.”

Montecito Journal
“Early perusal and preview screeners have revealed a number of informative and moving films, including the particularly timely In the Red, a world premiere film that chronicles the lives of six young people who change their troubled history into a promising future by becoming firefighters and first responders, creating their own opportunities through dedication and hard work.”