Ep 13. The Released

In "The Released," the thirteenth episode of the twenty-seventh season of Frontline, viewers are taken inside American prisons to explore the complex and often devastating process of releasing inmates back into society. The episode follows three individuals who were released from prison as they navigate the challenges of reentry and attempt to rebuild their lives.

Through intimate interviews with the subjects and their families, "The Released" provides a raw and emotional look at the difficulties of life post-prison. Viewers see the challenges of finding employment, securing housing, and establishing relationships with loved ones who may have moved on during the years of incarceration.

Additionally, the episode delves into the larger societal issues surrounding the high rate of recidivism in the United States. Interviews with experts on the prison system shed light on the underlying factors that contribute to the difficulty of successful reentry, such as the lack of resources and support for former inmates and the stigmatization that formerly incarcerated individuals often face.

As the subjects of "The Released" struggle to make a life for themselves outside of prison, viewers are reminded of the immense challenges that exist for individuals who have gone through the criminal justice system. Through their stories, the episode raises important questions about the effectiveness and fairness of the current system, and highlights the need for reform.