Work, The (15)

Documentary

Set inside a single room in Folsom Prison, three men from the outside participate in a four-day group-therapy retreat with a group of incarcerated men for a real look at the challenges of rehabilitation.

The critical consensus

Anyone dubious about the process is faced with the proof of their own eyes in a film that never feels voyeuristic or exploitative and remains gripping throughout.

(*) Allan Hunter, The List, 04/09/2017

The Work makes gruelling viewing at times – it’s more like psychotherapy than entertainment – but, by the end, viewers will feel as if they’ve been on the same rewarding journey as the subjects.

(*) (*) Geoffrey Macnab, The Independent, 07/09/2017

Not to sound trite, but it’s a damn privilege to watch this movie.

Aimee Knight, Little White Lies, 07/09/2017

A gripping, fresh perspective on crime and punishment.

(*) Allan Hunter, Daily Express, 08/09/2017

Citizens and inmates at Folsom state prison chant, scream and rage as they process their deepest fears and anxieties in this intriguing observational piece.

(*) (*) Leslie Felperin, The Guardian, 08/09/2017i

Prisoners engage with members of the public in an intensive therapy session in this extraordinarily moving documentary.

Simran Hans, The Observer, 10/09/2017