Half A Square Meter Of Freedom
1h 1m
Artworks coming from all over the world touch the spectators of this movie with an incredible emotional intensity. What could drive men and women, locked up behind bars for many years, to paint the portrait of their twin brother or a field of flowers? Some of these artworks can be quite disturbing as they reflect deeply what imprisonment does to a human being. A German art critic is astounded by the level of details in one painting and notices a little symbol of hope in one corner. Why are these prisoners painting? Is it a therapy, a way to escape, a leisurely pastime? The director, Inga Lavole-Khavkina explores the reasons behind the power of this art, which originates beyond the restrictions of the cell. This art delves into the profound recesses of the imagination and the soul, and, when exhibited, creates a bridge between prisoners and society. The viewers go through a surprising experience as the inmates recount how they went through their own healing catharsis, while laying their stories on the canvas. This documentary entices us to take a new look at prisoners and prepares us to welcome them back into society upon their release.