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PROJECT TITLE:

Released: When Does the Sentence End? 

OVERVIEW:

The United States Attorney's Office enforces and defends the laws of the United States through the prosecution of criminal cases brought by the Federal government and the litigation and defense of civil cases in which the United States is a party.  The United States Attorney for the Northern District of Georgia is the District's chief federal law enforcement officer. To address the pressing issue of recidivism, the USAO sought to develop an impactful video emphasizing effective solutions. One Vision Productions was engaged to execute this project.

 

GOALS:

Our goal was to produce an innovative project highlighting the challenges and successes of reentry, fostering community awareness and support through the powerful medium of documentary filmmaking.

PROCESS:

The project involved the creation of a groundbreaking documentary titled "Released: When Does the Sentence End?" in collaboration with the USAO. The process had three phases:

  1. Pre-Production: Key stakeholders, including the U.S. Attorney for the Northern District of Georgia, were engaged to develop initiatives and establish a strategic plan. Identifying formerly incarcerated candidates and relevant community leaders was prioritized, alongside location scouting for filming.

  2. Production: In-depth interviews were conducted with selected candidates to capture their unique narratives. A professional photoshoot was organized to create promotional materials, including a movie poster.

  3. Post-Production: A dynamic 60-second trailer generated interest in the documentary. Comprehensive editing enhanced the audio, visual quality, and opening and end title credits.

OUTCOMES:

The documentary "Released" was completed on schedule and within the allocated budget. Notably, former Georgia Governor Nathan Deal was featured in the film, highlighting his innovative policies on prison reform. The state and federal government collaboration significantly enhanced the documentary's outreach. The premiere took place at The Rialto Center for the Arts Theatre, drawing an audience of over 500 attendees, including community members, law enforcement officials, legal professionals, and state and federal employees. The Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation generously contributed $15,000 to support 50 screenings throughout Georgia. Additionally, the film was shared nationwide with all 92 U.S. Attorney's Offices as a benchmark for prison reform. "Released: When Does the Sentence End?" has garnered 25 awards from various film festivals and award shows, underscoring its impact and recognition within the industry.

SAMPLE VIDEO

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Poster & VIDEOS

RELEASED is a powerful 45-minute documentary that addresses the experiences of individuals formerly involved in the criminal justice system. Often, these individuals have participated in job development programs intended to prepare and connect them with employment opportunities. However, opportunities for meaningful and sustainable employment are frequently scarce.​ The film challenges us to reflect on how we view returning citizens. It confronts how people released from prison continue to pay for the mistakes of their past while still holding out hope for the future.

Released Poster
Released Film Awards

awards

PHOTOS

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