Michael Tolajian. 2019, Q Ball. Los Angeles, California, Fox Sports Films. Running Time 97 m

Excerpt

My experience when it comes to jails and prisons dates back to my early years when my uncle was given a 16-year sentence for being an accessory to an armed robbery in my birthplace of Lima, Ohio. Growing up, I always associated the law with being an unjust system that targeted people of color. It took me a while to understand that there are good and bad components to the justice system, and I began dedicating my life to changing the aspects that I did not like. As someone who considers themselves an advocate for prison reform, I find it interesting the images presented to the public about prison systems. The idea for prison, we believe, is not only to house the “bad people”, but to prepare the eligible for their return to society. TV shows like Beyond Scared Straight and Lockup have depicted inmates as savages with little to no hope for redemption. Director Michael Tolajian’s film, Q Ball, offers a different insight into correctional facilities and the lives of inmates. With cameos from people like Jacob Evans, a 2018 Golden State Warrior NBA draft pick, this film takes watchers on an emotional journey with aspiration and confusion at the forefront. …