Most people know about prisons only from fiction books and movies. But what happens behind the walls of correctional institutions, recently you can learn from documentary projects like this.
British journalist and TV presenter for two weeks becomes a guest of one of the most famous prisons in the United States. He learns about local customs and rules. Of course, in order to ensure the safety of the researcher, he and the crew are accompanied by prison guards everywhere. There is nothing surprising or prejudiced here. And as you can see from the communication with the local contingent, there are reasons for concern for their own lives here. It is interesting to hear the stories from the prisoners themselves. Some of them are just shocking, others give a smile, others bewilderment. Interestingly, the journalist communicates with both gang members and singles. In addition, the wardens give a kind of interview, sharing details about prison life and the peculiarities of their work. And as for the institution itself, its scale is simply amazing. It's hard to imagine how this living machine has worked for decades.
It is not that you will learn something radically new from this film, but, of course, this study deserves attention. Very rare subject for documentary projects and the material is well submitted.
7 out of 10