People First Productions creates powerful, human-centered documentaries about justice, identity, and change.
Original Films
Associated Projects
About us
People First Productions, founded in 2024 by Detroit-based documentary filmmaker Razi Jafri, creates essential viewing for a global audience curious about the forces shaping America. We specialize in translating the often abstract or divisive nature of U.S. politics into intimate, human-centered stories. Our films and multimedia journalism move beyond the headlines and the partisan noise to explore the real-world impact of democracy, rights, and social change on individuals and communities.
We operate on a core belief: to understand America, you must understand the people striving to define it. For international viewers seeking clarity, we provide a vital lens—spotlighting the personal courage of grassroots activists, the resilience of at-risk populations, and the quiet battles for dignity that happen far from the national stage. Our work intentionally combats stereotypes by revealing the complex motives, cultural currents, and shared humanity at play.