Films

Too often the authentic stories, voices, and talents of incarceration survivors are lost in filmmaking in an effort to achieve someone else’s goals. In the process, harmful stereotypes are perpetuated, whether intentionally of not.

The Virginia Film Festival is proud to partner with The Inthrive Film Festival to host this series of short films that celebrate authentic voices and bring the talents of incarceration survivors to the fore.

Cellblocks to Mountaintops
Dir. Lydia B. Smith | USA | 9 min.
“Cellblocks to Mountaintops” is a multimedia podcast with a companion video series. It delves into how America addresses violence, defines justice, and seeks accountability through the compelling journey of one man. Years after committing a horrific crime, Sterling Cunio confronts the full ripple effects of the harm he caused. Through artistic expression, human connections, and inspired by restorative justice principles, he undergoes a remarkable personal transformation during decades in prison.

Little April
Dir. April Grayson | USA | 7 min.

Like Represent Justice Ambassador April Grayson, 90% of youth who come to be involved in the justice system have had prior traumatic experiences. April’s life virtually began in the foster care system. She spent her formative years in households and spaces where she was abused and mistreated by those entrusted with her safety and wellbeing. By 19, April was arrested and sentenced to 20 years and 8 months in prison, serving 17 of those years. Weaving together documentary and fiction elements, the film illuminates a cinematic and ultimately magical path to transforming our youth justice system.

On Beyond Fences
Dirs. Tom Donohue, “Lara” Jacqueline Hartzenbusch, Jack Kudas, Wes Smith, Silvia Sonntag | USA | 21 min.

A rare, intimate look inside Maine State Prison, where efforts to reform the historically brutal institution (the basis for Stephen King’s novella and the feature film, “The Shawshank Redemption”) have dramatically shifted the prison culture, the way “residents” do their time and, ultimately, how they return to their communities.

What These Walls Won’t Hold
Dir. Adamu Chan |USA | 39 min.

Transcending the grim realities of the COVID-19 pandemic, Adamu Chan’s powerful documentary paints a poignant portrait of resilience and hope blossoming within the confines of San Quentin State Prison.

Discussion with filmmakers April Grayson and “Lara” Jacqueline Hartzenbusch, moderated by Jesse Crosson (Second Chancer Foundation)