Watch Incarcerating US

Incarcerating US is a documentary film that sheds light on how the United States has become the world leader in incarceration. The film, released in 2016, features interviews with a diverse group of politicians, lawmakers, activists, and law enforcement officials who discuss the causes and consequences of mass incarceration in America.

The film is narrated by Judge Robert Holmes Bell, who provides a historical overview of the criminal justice system and how it has evolved over time. He explains how the War on Drugs and other tough-on-crime policies have contributed to the rise in imprisonment rates, particularly among communities of color.

Throughout the film, several experts provide their insights on the flaws in the criminal justice system. Ginger Fenter, a former inmate, shares her personal experience of going through the system and the impact it had on her life. Fenter also discusses the lack of rehabilitation programs in prisons and how they fail to address the issues that led to incarceration.

Another interviewee is Neill Franklin, a retired police officer who expresses his frustration with the current system's heavy reliance on punitive measures. He emphasizes the importance of community policing and the need to address the root causes of crime rather than just punishing people for their actions.

One of the striking features of Incarcerating US is the use of statistics and data to support the film's claims. The filmmakers use infographics and animation to present data on topics such as the racial disparities in sentencing, the rise in private prisons, and the financial costs of incarceration.

The film also highlights several organizations and initiatives that are working towards reforming the criminal justice system. One such group is the Innocence Project, which helps exonerate wrongfully convicted individuals. Another organization mentioned is the Prison Entrepreneurship Program, which provides business training to inmates with the goal of reducing recidivism rates.

Incarcerating US is not simply a critique of the criminal justice system, but it also provides glimpses of hope and progress. The film shows how ordinary people can make a difference by advocating for change, and it encourages viewers to get involved in the fight for a more just and equitable society.

Overall, Incarcerating US is a thought-provoking and informative documentary that sheds light on the complex issue of mass incarceration in America. It provides a nuanced understanding of this issue and challenges viewers to reconsider their assumptions about the criminal justice system.