Watch The Work

The Work is a powerful documentary film directed by Jairus McLeary and Gethin Aldous that offers a raw and intimate portrayal of a group therapy session at the notorious Folsom State Prison in California. The film provides a poignant glimpse into the lives of inmates as they confront their deepest fears, grapple with inner demons, and try to connect with others in a deeply troubled social system.

The film starts with the arrival of three men from the outside world at Folsom Prison, where they join a group of convicts in a four-day therapy session called The Work. The group is led by a team of experienced facilitators and supported by a group of long-serving inmates who have been through the program themselves. The Work is designed to help participants express their emotions, connect with others, and confront the traumas that led them to prison.

The film captures the intensity of The Work as the men share their stories, engage in emotional and physical exercises, and offer feedback to each other. The camera is unflinching in its portrayal of the men as they let their guards down and confront their deepest fears, past traumas, and emotional struggles. The film offers a rare glimpse into a world that is often hidden from view and challenges our assumptions about the nature of crime and punishment.

The Work is not an easy film to watch. The raw emotions, the painful struggles, and the brutal honesty of the men can be confronting and unsettling. But it is precisely this unflinching honesty that makes the film so powerful. The men in this film are not just prisoners or criminals; they are human beings who have made mistakes and are struggling to find redemption and connection in a harsh and unforgiving environment.

One of the most striking things about The Work is the way in which it challenges the traditional stereotypes of masculinity. The men in this film are not the macho, tough-guy types often depicted in popular culture. Instead, they are vulnerable, emotional, and willing to express their feelings in front of other men. They cry, they hug, and they offer support to each other in ways that are rarely seen in our society. The film offers a powerful critique of the way in which notions of masculinity often contribute to violence, anger, and imprisonment.

Another theme that emerges in The Work is the impact of trauma on the lives of the men. Many of the men in the group have experienced childhood abuse, neglect, and violence that has left them deeply scarred. The film highlights the importance of addressing trauma as a critical component of rehabilitation and offers a potent challenge to the prevailing 'tough on crime' approach that dominates the criminal justice system.

Overall, The Work is a deeply moving and thought-provoking film that provides a poignant insight into the lives of prisoners and the challenges of rehabilitation. It is a film that raises profound questions about the nature of punishment, the role of masculinity in our society, and the need to address past traumas as part of the healing process. The Work is a must-see film for anyone interested in criminal justice, social policy, or the human condition.