The Cinematheque

“An emotionally riveting documentary that may very well be the most powerful group therapy ever caught on camera.”

Eric Kohn, Indiewire

Leave any preconceived notions you might have about ​“cons” at the door when you see The Work, an extraordinarily raw and intimate look at group therapy inside California’s Folsom State Prison. Dedicated to the personal growth of the incarcerated, the Inside Circle Foundation runs weekly therapy sessions, and twice a year conducts a four-day intensive group retreat with maximum-security convicts and men ​“from the outside.” In the documentary, bartender and father of three Charles, museum worker Chris, and teacher’s assistant Brian join 50 inmates to face their personal demons together. The results are emotionally explosive, but also bring surprising moments of healing, compassion, and camaraderie. The film was an audience favourite and award-winner at several festivals.

Post-screening discussion with Alison Granger-Brown and Tom McCallum

Moderated by Dr. Harry Karlinsky, Clinical Professor, Department of Psychiatry, University of British Columbia