Independent Lens Season 20 Episode 17 Out Of State

Out Of State is a powerful documentary from the independent film series Independent Lens, which follows the journey of two native Hawaiians who are sent to a private prison in Arizona, away from their families and cultural traditions. The film attempts to shed light on the human toll of the mass incarceration system in the United States and its impact on the Hawaiian community.

The documentary takes us on a journey with two men, David and Hale, who are incarcerated in a private prison in the middle of the Arizona desert. They are among thousands of Hawaiian men who have been relocated to prisons on the mainland United States due to overcrowding in Hawaii's jails and prisons. The men are forced to adapt to a new way of life, away from their families and the culture they know and love.

Through the eyes of David and Hale, the viewer experiences the pain of being away from home and losing touch with one's cultural roots. We see them struggle with feelings of isolation and longing for the familiar rhythms and customs of their homeland. They share stories of growing up in Hawaii and talk about the important role that hula, music and family play in their lives.

The film also explores the impact of incarceration on families. We see the devastating effects that separation has on those left behind, including David's wife and son. We also meet a group of Hawaiian mothers who run a support group for families of those who are incarcerated. They talk about the constant worry and anxiety that comes with having a loved one in prison, and the challenges of maintaining a relationship across such a great distance.

Out Of State challenges viewers to look beyond the stereotypes of "criminals" and realize the humanity behind those who are incarcerated. It is a film that encourages empathy and understanding, and raises important questions about the US criminal justice system.

The documentary also touches on the cultural significance of hula and music in the Hawaiian community. We see David and Hale participate in a hula class in the prison, and witness the healing power of art and tradition. The film emphasizes the importance of preserving cultural heritage and the role it plays in maintaining a sense of identity and connection to one's community.

Through raw and emotional interviews, Out Of State provides a rare glimpse into the lives of those impacted by the mass incarceration system. It challenges us to think about the human cost of this system, and the need for criminal justice reform that prioritizes rehabilitation and community-based solutions.

Overall, Out Of State is a thought-provoking and important documentary that sheds light on an often-overlooked aspect of the US criminal justice system. It is a film that will leave viewers moved and informed, and that has the potential to inspire change in our society.