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Living UN DONE confronts the harsh realities faced by those who have been incarcerated
CA, UNITED STATES, November 8, 2024 /EINPresswire / -- 'Living UN DONE' emerges as a stirring short
film that challenges viewers to confront the harsh realities faced by those who have been incarcerated and the insidious stigma that follows them long after their release. Directed and produced by Amanda Kasmira Cryer, produced by Carole Joyce, with executive producer Damon Russell and Brenden Hubbard, the short film seeks to redefine justice through compassion and understanding.
As the film unfolds, the audience is offered a glimpse into the lives of individuals and their families faced with the harsh realities of a criminal justice system that stigmatizes rather than rehabilitates. The entire film is a call to action - urging society to confront its complicity and advocate for a future where healing, understanding, and second chances are possible for all.
“Our goal with this film is to transcend political divides, reminding us that these aren't just partisan issues; they are human issues. We worked with both Democrats and Republicans who are committed to criminal justice reform - proof that unity is possible,” said Cryer.“As someone who has seen firsthand the damaging effects of a retributive criminal justice system on my own family, friends and colleagues, I am committed to illuminating the stories of individuals and families who have been impacted by this system. These stories remind us that we all share responsibility in addressing these systemic issues and advocating for a society that encourages and supports recovery and new beginnings."
Yusef Salaam appears in the film. The internationally recognized author, activist, motivational speaker, and American politician serving as a member of New York City's 9th City Council district, was wrongly convicted along with four other young men in the Central Park Five case, when he was just 15 years old.
Betty Anne Waters also appears in the film. Her remarkable journey inspired the Hollywood film, 'Conviction,' featuring Hilary Swank and Sam Rockwell. In 'Living UN DONE,' Betty Anne shares her personal story of how difficult it was to witness her brother's wrongful conviction. As a single mother and a waitress with only a high school equivalency at the time, Betty Anne faced immense challenges as she fought to free her brother, Kenneth Waters, who was wrongfully imprisoned for a crime he did not commit.
The film follows the journeys of Kate Boccia, Founder and CEO of the National Incarceration Association and mother to Daniel Jay Boccia; Idaira (Evie) Taveras, (the wife of Daniel Jay Boccia and Mother to Enzo Alexander Boccia); four-year old, Enzo Alexander Boccia, motivational speaker and a criminal justice system activist, Billy Joe Holmes (Big Billie); author, teacher, and President and Founder of Power of Peace Project, Kit Cummings; prison ministry advocate and the mother of Michael Alexander Cox, Evelyn Ware Cox; consultant for ERA Group and the father of Daniel Jay Boccia, Frank Boccia; and Michael Alexander Cox, who has been incarcerated since 2004 and is currently serving life without parole. Lastly, mentor, tutor and coach, S. Brown, who is currently serving life without parole offers an important call to action in the film.
'Living UN DONE' goes deeper, also touching on the interconnected issues of incarceration, mental health struggles, and addiction that plague so many individuals and families. The powerful message encourages members of society to reconsider how to co-create and approach rehabilitation and the digital punishment that encumbers formerly incarcerated individuals.
"We are dismantling the pervasive money-making machinery of the penal system, revealing its inequities and injustices,” said Joyce, who is also a director at the Authentic Global Film Festival.“Together, we embody the solution to this pressing societal issue."
This film serves as a stark reminder that children, friends, and family can find themselves ensnared in a tragic spiral, causing harm that echoes far beyond the moment of impact. It also highlights the torment that not only confines individuals within prison walls but also casts a long-lasting shadow of stigma upon their release - a digital scarlet letter that brands them for life.
To learn more, visit:
'Living UN DONE' is competing at the 2024 ETHOS film festival and is scheduled to screen on Friday, November 8th at 7:30 p.m PST at the Laemmle Monica Film Center (1332 2nd St., Santa Monica 90401).
Tickets can be purchased at:
ETHOS Film Festival showcases purpose-driven films that promote peace, diversity, inclusion, and environmental sustainability, which we believe are crucial to conceptualizing a vision for a better future. We see the art of film and storytelling as a sacred process that transcends all cultures and languages.
An opportunity to honor Veterans as well as celebrate independent filmmakers who are making a difference will take place at the film awards ceremony:
November 11th, 2024
Location: 333 East Colorado St., Glendale, CA, 91205
Red Carpet: 4:30pm
Film Awards Gala: 6pm - 9pm
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