In May 2004, First Run Features and Human Rights Watch launched a collaboration to bring films dealing with human rights issues to a wider audience. The Human Rights Watch International Film Festival will annually endorse selected First Run titles that shed light on human rights abuses throughout the world.

First Run Features and Human Rights Watch have long shared a philosophy that film has a unique ability to engage, inform and make a difference. For 25 years, First Run Features has brought films dealing with political, social and humanitarian issues to a wide and diverse audience. Similarly, since the inception of its International Film Festival in 1988, Human Rights Watch has embraced the power of film to influence public opinion and international policy.