First Out (2026)

Making it big in the big leagues is something that talented individuals in many fields of endeavor regularly dream about. But is it something for everyone possessing such attributes, especially if it means making a big sacrifice to fulfill that goal? That’s what writer-director Michelle Salcedo examines in her latest film short, the story of two brothers (Pedro Martinez, Julio Trinidad), Cuban baseball phenoms that a hustling scout (Eddie Mujica) wants to recruit to play in the US. However, that would essentially call for defecting, leaving behind their homeland and their family, most notably their sister (Camila Rodhe), who doesn’t always function well on her own. So what will they do? Such is the dilemma faced by the duo in this fact-based tale, one that’s an engaging watch but that would have worked better as a full-length feature. As a short, there’s a lot missing from this story that easily could have been expanded into something more substantial. Since many features get their starts as shorts, I’d like to hope that ultimately happens with this film, as it’s something I’d definitely go see (and I’m not an especially avid baseball fan). Here’s hoping that eventuality comes to pass.