RTA (Rehabilitation Through the Arts) was established in 1996 to help inmates build life skills thru the arts. The theater program is still happening and this film details the program thru the eyes of one man who was a key figure (played by the always remarkable Coleman Domingo). It follows a group of men as they work to create a new production, while dealing with personal issues. Their situations are compelling, especially because a majority of the men in the group were involved in the program when they were incarcerated. The strongest asset of this film is its truth. These men obviously related to their characters and it shows in their compelling performances. Their anger and desperation is offset by the warmth and support from the group. It almost feels like a documentary, but there’s power in the performances and unobtrusive direction that creates a rewarding and touching cinematic experience. (4 / 5)

Movieland link

NOTE: In 1986, I produced and directed a video called “Time to Learn.” It was written and acted by inmates at the former Springstreet Penitentiary in downtown Richmond. It’s still effective and features a talented group of men (the guards were played by real guards and local actor Beatrice Bush played the only female role). Local writer Evans Hopkins wrote the script and the music score was composed and performed by another inmate IN HIS CELL. Here’s a link.