The Work (15)

This incredible documentary takes us inside an intense, four-day therapy session with the inmates of Folsom State Prison in Sacramento, California.

Twice a year, prisoners mingle with free men to discuss their pasts, anxieties, emotional wounds and problematic behaviour – criminal and otherwise. Rather than rubber-necking into the psyche of unfortunate souls, what emerges is a fascinating picture of masculinity. More than this, we’re placed inside the prison, with these individuals, so the stakes are high for us, even as viewers.

Winner of the Grand Jury Prize at this year’s SWSW and a hit at Sheffield Doc/Fest (where the film had its UK premiere), the directors Jairus McLeary and Gethin Aldous have created an unusual work with real emotional intelligence.