Acclaimed filmmaker Nathaniel Lezra talks all about his latest documentary, Roads of Fire, as it prepares for its New York premiere at the 28th Brooklyn Film Festival. This film is more important and timely than ever!
Lezra is known for capturing urgent, human-centered stories across both documentary and narrative formats. His work often focuses on social and geopolitical crises, bringing a distinct and deeply empathetic lens to global issues. Roads of Fire is a powerful exploration of the global migration crisis, weaving together the stories of a human smuggler guiding refugees through the perilous Darién Gap, an asylum seeker navigating life in New York, and frontline volunteers offering aid amidst one of today’s most pressing humanitarian challenges.
Told through intimate, personal narratives, the film offers an unflinching yet compassionate look at migration, illuminating the interconnected struggles and resilience of those seeking safety and dignity.
“This film is as much about the cost of immigration policy as it is about the resilience of the people impacted by it,” said Lezra. “Given that much of the story unfolds in Brooklyn, having our New York premiere here—at a festival known for championing bold, socially conscious storytelling—feels incredibly meaningful.”
Premiering earlier this year at the Santa Barbara International Film Festival, Roads of Fire earned critical acclaim and was awarded “Best Documentary Film 2025.” It also had its European premiere in Croatia at ZagrebDox Film Festival earlier this year. The film has been lauded for its emotional depth, immersive storytelling, and timely subject matter. The film is produced by Nathaniel Lezra, Malcolm Bird, Benjamin Wellington, Nicole Tao, David Wu.
With everything going on in the world, this is a must see!
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