Three Movies That Sing

No one I know closely is or has had "system involvement", that euphemism for being detained, imprisoned or otherwise marred by our criminal system. Yet precisely because of this, I feel pulled toward this world that so many have experienced, that has caused so much grief, separation, and dehumanizing. I want remind myself that it exists, that it's wildly pervasive, that the more I know, the more that knowledge seeps into my decisions, my pocketbook, my heart.

I've seen three extraordinary movies recently. I'm so grateful to have experienced their artistry, and their storytelling. Find them where you are.

Songs From the Hole: a visual album written by JJ88 while in prison, filmed both before & after his release. Co-produced by one of my biggest abolitionist teachers, Richie Reseda.

Sing Sing: A cinematically gorgeous film based on two men's experiences with a prison arts program, based on a true story. Most actors are formerly incarcerated. Brilliant in so many ways.

The Prison Within: A documentary exposing cycles of violence and trauma - on both sides of the wall - in the U.S. prison system. Follows prisoners and survivors in San Quentin's Victim Offender Education Group.

September 2024 Back to Blog Home

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