It's true that views on crime and punishment differ greatly, and everyone is entitled to their own perspective. Most people likely believe those who commit crimes deserve consequences. But does that give the authorities responsible for justice the power to do whatever they want when dealing with offenders? Is it acceptable to manage prisoners as a form of essentially lifelong enslavement, marked by inhumane treatment, terrible living conditions, constant personal humiliations, and systems designed to generate profits for the state or a select few? And what about rehabilitation – is there any real possibility of that happening, or is it just empty promises? These are some of the troubling questions raised in this disturbing and revealing HBO documentary exploring life inside Alabama’s 14 statewide correctional facilities, an agency whose name doesn't reflect its stated purpose. This excellent but unsettling film from writer-directors Andrew Jarecki and Charlotte Kaufman shares the stories of several Alabama prisoners (with strong support from their families) who bravely documented the appalling conditions within their prisons using smuggled cell phones – devices that were often secretly brought into these institutions by guards looking to make money. The videos made by these courageous videographers show a pattern of brutal beatings by overworked, angry, and out-of-control staff members, frequently occurring in filthy and dreadful environments and driven by personal grudges or official policies. This is especially true when it comes to suppressing reports of such abuses and carrying out reprehensible acts of retaliation without supervision, almost all of which have gone unaddressed and unpunished by prison officials. The inmates who participated in this project risked their safety – even their lives – hoping to inform the public, as journalists are not allowed inside these facilities. They also aimed to gather evidence of ongoing barbarity to encourage the US Department of Justice to investigate and potentially take over management of the ADOC. Despite attempts by the federal government to get involved, the state stubbornly resisted, insisting this was an Alabama problem requiring an “Alabama solution.” This rigid and unproductive stance led to a well-organized effort by inmates across the state to fight back, using creative protest methods never before seen in Alabama or elsewhere. "The Alabama Solution" is one of those important films that starkly demonstrates how low humanity can sink when inflicting terrible treatment on others, even those who have been imprisoned for their acknowledged wrongdoings. However, enduring such unacceptable conditions has put immense pressure on the incarcerated population, contributing to Alabama having the highest rates of prison deaths, suicides, and overdoses in the country, as well as one of the lowest parole approval rates. Sadly, this release also makes it clear that Alabama is not alone; similar conditions exist in other states, a revelation partly due to efforts by Alabama prisoners connecting with inmates elsewhere. This Oscar nominee for best documentary feature can be difficult to watch at times (sensitive viewers should be aware). Just when you think things couldn't get worse, there are always new revelations that surpass what came before. Nevertheless, this film makes clear what everyone in a supposedly civilized society should know – and not tolerate.

Source on TMDB