Ep 18. They Call Us Monsters

They Call Us Monsters is an episode of the popular documentary series Independent Lens. In this episode, viewers follow a group of teenagers who are taking part in a writing workshop taught by screenwriter Gabriel Cowan. However, these aren't your average teenagers - they are inside the barbed wire fences of Sylmar Juvenile Hall in Los Angeles, California, and they have been charged with serious crimes.

The workshop is designed to give these young men a voice and an outlet for their creativity. They are encouraged to write stories, poetry, and even scripts for short films. Through their writing, viewers gain an insight into the boys' experiences and their views on the justice system. They discuss their fears, their dreams, and the regrets that led them to where they are.

The three main participants in the workshop are Jarad, Juan, and Antonio. All three boys have been charged as adults and face the possibility of spending the rest of their lives in prison. Jarad is facing a potential life sentence for a gang-related crime, while Juan and Antonio are both charged with attempted murder. As they work on their writing, they reflect on their pasts and the choices that led them to juvenile hall.

As well as following the writing workshop, the documentary also examines the debates around the issue of trying juveniles as adults. Some argue that the threat of a life sentence is an effective deterrent, while others believe that sending teenagers to adult prison is a violation of their human rights. Viewers hear from the boys' families, lawyers, and advocates who represent both sides of the argument.

Throughout the documentary, viewers see the boys' frustration with the limitations of their situation. They are confined to a small cell for most of the day and have limited access to education and therapy. Despite this, they remain hopeful that they will be able to turn their lives around. They talk about their plans for the future and the things that they hope to achieve if they are released.

The documentary also takes a look at the debate around prison reform. The boys' advocates argue that the current system is failing young people, and that they should be given a chance to rehabilitate and reintegrate into society. Many of the boys originally fell into criminal activity as a result of poverty, lack of education, and exposure to violence. By providing them with education, therapy, and support, it is hoped that they will be able to break the cycle of criminality.

Overall, They Call Us Monsters is a thought-provoking and poignant documentary that gives viewers a glimpse into the lives of young people caught up in the criminal justice system. The documentary raises important questions about the treatment of juveniles in the justice system, and the role of prison in rehabilitation and reform. It is a powerful reminder that behind every crime is a human being with a story to tell.