Shakespeare Behind Bars
2005: Hank Rogerson
A documentary film about a program in a high-security Kentucky prison, where a group of prisoners, some incarcerated for life, are using Shakespeare to come to an understanding of their own lives, confront their crimes, and seek forgiveness. A volunteer director leads them through a new play each year; in the case under investigation, the play is the Tempest.
These are violent offenders who have also frequently been victims of violence as well. The film discusses some very gritty matters that will certainly disturb some viewers: parents and teachers are cautioned. It is a moving but disturbing film: not easy to watch, but ultimately redemptive and transforming.