Educational Media Reviews Online

James Burns’ documentary offers a compelling examination of the 2011 California prison hunger strike, the largest in U.S. history, involving over 6,000 prisoners. Led by inmates in Pelican Bay State Prison’s Security Housing Unit (SHU), the strike protested the inhumane conditions of solitary confinement, a practice condemned as psychologically damaging and in violation of human rights.

The documentary excels in humanizing the inmates' experiences through intimate interviews, archival footage, and insights from prison reform activists, former inmates, and families. By focusing on the lives of those held in solitary confinement for years, the film underscores the emotional and psychological toll of extreme isolation, portraying solitary confinement not just as punishment but as a form of torture.

The film highlights the hunger strike as an act of resistance, emphasizing the inmates' demand for better conditions and recognition of their humanity. The coordination between prisoner groups is portrayed as a rare example of solidarity in a fractured environment. Beyond the strike itself, the film critiques the broader U.S. prison system's heavy reliance on solitary confinement and advocates for meaningful reform.

Stylistically, the documentary prioritizes personal stories, offering a raw and emotional narrative over dramatic visuals. While this intimate approach is impactful, the absence of perspectives from prison officials or policymakers limits the film’s balance. Additionally, the film's pacing occasionally feels repetitive, revisiting the psychological damage of solitary confinement without advancing the narrative.

Despite these minor shortcomings, this documentary effectively sheds light on a pressing social justice issue. It is a powerful call for prison reform and a moving testament to the resilience of those who endured isolation. For libraries supporting academic programs relating to human rights and social justice, this documentary makes for an informative and thought-provoking addition to collections.

Awards:
Best Documentary, Hot Docs Student Choice Awards; Best Documentary, San Quentin Film Festival Inside Jury Award; Best Documentary, Cine Las Americas Audience Award; Best Documentary, Morehouse College Human Rights Film Festival; Best Documentary, Santa Fe International Film Festival

Published and licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. Anyone can use these reviews, so long as they comply with the terms of the license.