Last Days of Solitary

Last Days of Solitary investigates the practice of solitary confinement in American prisons. It focuses on the Maine State Prison, where filmmakers were granted unprecedented access to the solitary confinement unit for over three years. Through this intimate lens, viewers are confronted with the harsh realities and psychological toll of prolonged isolation on inmates.

The documentary presents a harrowing portrait of life in solitary confinement, showcasing the experiences of prisoners who have spent years, and in some cases decades, in isolation. It reveals the devastating mental health consequences of this practice, which has been widely criticized as a form of torture. It also highlights the efforts of prison officials and reformers who are working to reduce the use of solitary confinement and implement alternative approaches to managing challenging inmates.

One of the most striking aspects is its depiction of the psychological deterioration that occurs in solitary confinement. Viewers witness firsthand the mental anguish and emotional instability that result from prolonged isolation, as well as the difficulties inmates face when transitioning back to the general prison population or society at large. It raises important questions about the long-term effects of solitary confinement on both individuals and communities, particularly in terms of recidivism and public safety.

Last Days of Solitary also provides historical context for the practice of solitary confinement in the United States, tracing its origins back 200 years. This historical perspective helps viewers understand how solitary confinement became such a prevalent tool in the American criminal justice system, despite mounting evidence of its harmful effects. It presents the latest research on the psychological impact of isolation, further underscoring the urgent need for reform.

Viewers are introduced to various stakeholders in the prison system, including inmates, corrections officers, mental health professionals, and prison administrators. These diverse perspectives offer a nuanced view of the challenges and complexities involved in reforming solitary confinement practices. It highlights the tension between maintaining prison safety and protecting the mental health and basic human rights of inmates.

The film’s examination of reform efforts at Maine State Prison provides a glimmer of hope amidst the bleak reality of solitary confinement. It showcases innovative programs and approaches aimed at reducing the use of isolation and improving outcomes for prisoners. These initiatives serve as potential models for other correctional facilities grappling with similar issues.

By shining a light on this often-hidden aspect of the prison system, the documentary encourages viewers to confront difficult questions about justice, punishment, and rehabilitation. It challenges conventional wisdom about the effectiveness of solitary confinement and prompts a reconsideration of how society treats its most troubled and troublesome offenders.