Sixteen Thousand Dollars 2020
In *Sixteen Thousand Dollars (2020)*, first-time director Symone Baptiste delivers a sharp, thought-provoking comedy that tackles the timely issue of reparations with humor and heart.
Director: Symone Baptiste
Cast
Frequently Asked Questions
What is *Sixteen Thousand Dollars* (2020) about?
This 17-minute comedy-drama follows a Black college graduate who receives $16,000 in reparations for their ancestors. The sudden influx of cash forces them to confront the emotional and ethical complexities of reparations, systemic racism, and personal identity.
Who directed *Sixteen Thousand Dollars*?
Symone Baptiste makes her directorial debut with this sharp, socially conscious short film.
Who stars in *Sixteen Thousand Dollars*?
The film stars Brodie Reed, Ellington Wells, David Gborie, Francesca Fiorentini, and Biniam Bizuneh in key roles.
Is *Sixteen Thousand Dollars* (2020) worth watching?
As a genre-blending comedy with a serious message, *Sixteen Thousand Dollars* offers a fresh take on reparations and modern racism. While its runtime is brief, its themes linger, making it a compelling watch for fans of thoughtful, dialogue-driven films.
How long is *Sixteen Thousand Dollars*?
The film runs for 17 minutes.
🎥 Trailer
About Sixteen Thousand Dollars (2020) — Comedy Short Exploring Reparations and Generational Justice
In *Sixteen Thousand Dollars (2020)*, first-time director Symone Baptiste delivers a sharp, thought-provoking comedy that tackles the timely issue of reparations with humor and heart. The film follows a young Black college graduate who wakes up to discover their family has received a modest—but life-changing—$16,000 payment as part of a historic reparations initiative for descendants of enslaved people. With this unexpected bounty, the protagonist navigates the emotional and practical fallout of reparations, grappling with generational trauma, systemic injustice, and the complex weight of financial restitution. The story unfolds against the backdrop of modern struggles, blending biting social commentary with the intimate, relatable journey of one person's quest to make sense of their new reality.
Baptiste's direction infuses the 17-minute short with a mix of levity and gravity, balancing witty dialogue with poignant reflections on race and privilege. The ensemble cast, led by Brodie Reed and Ellington Wells, brings authenticity and charm to the characters, grounding the satire in human emotion. *Sixteen Thousand Dollars* isn't just a comedy—it's a snapshot of a moment where money, identity, and justice collide, leaving audiences both entertained and challenged to think critically about history's lingering shadows.