The Return 2016
Distributed by Bullfrog Films, PO Box 149, Oley, PA 19547; 800-543-FROG (3764)
Produced by Ariella Ben-Dov
Directed by Kelly Duane and Katie Galloway
DVD , color, 84 min.
High School - General Adult
African Americans, Criminal Justice, Corrections, Counseling, Law, Mental Health, Social Justice
Date Entered: 10/31/2017
Reviewed by Jenifer Becker, Washington State University, VancouverEnacted in 1994, California’s Prop 36 Three Strike Law required that individuals who had two prior serious or violent felonies be sentenced to 25 years to life upon their third felony. A 2012 amendment removed the sentencing requirement and allowed those individuals convicted under the law to apply for a reduced sentence. The Return follows re-sentencing under the 2012 amendment and the re-entry process for Kenneth Anderson and Bilal Chatman. The process to get released in itself is arduous, but re-entry into society comes with stressors and temptations.
Anderson and Chatman’s re-entry present as opposing case studies. Upon release, Anderson returns to stay with his ex-wife and adult children in Los Angeles. Chatman, who’s main family consists of only an elderly mother, enters a transition house in San Jose. Paired alongside Anderson’s large extended family of children and grandchildren, it’s easy to develop a sense of unease and worry for Chatman. As the case studies evolve, however, the need for transitional housing programs, like the one Chatman is in, becomes clear. Anderson states during the film, “Somebody told me I had to go to a transition home,” and, as if questioning the notion, adds, “I have a family.” Family, as Chatman notes though, can be a stressor. Transition housing and re-entry programs provide a support structure that helps former inmates adjust to life outside in ways no family unit could.
This moving and enlightening documentary would pair well with any discussion regarding the prison-industrial complex. The 2012 amendment to the Three Strikes Law does not stand alone. It is one of many examples of prison reform efforts to move away from draconian retribution-focused criminal justice policies. Prison reform conversations are often focused, understandably, on amending the present structure of the criminal justice system and the conditions within prisons. The Return’s focus on the process of rehabilitation pushes the conversation to its necessary next step as polices like the 2012 amendment are adopted. It would make a great addition to any public or academic library.