Lost for Life

Gr 9 Up—Brian was 16 when he committed murder; Torey, Jacob, and Josiah were also 16; Seth, 17. All received life without parole. In the United States today, more than 2,500 people are serving life-without-parole sentences for crimes they committed when they were 17 years old or younger—some as young as 13. The Supreme Court's recent historic ruling in Miller v. Alabama holds that mandatory sentences for juveniles constitute cruel and unusual punishment, in violation of the Eighth Amendment. However, the court did not decide the fate of those currently serving life sentences. This powerful and insightful documentary focuses on five young men, who they were when they committed their crime, and who they have become. Director Joshua Rofé worked for four years on the documentary, gaining the trust of his participants to insightfully portray the complexity of their issues. Teens will be fascinated by these men, who have faced the issues that led up to the crimes as well as the ramifications (They were interviewed at different points—five, 18, and 21 years—after their sentencing.) The very reasonable price makes it accessible, and the film would work well in a classroom for a spirited discussion on crime, punishment, justice, redemption, mercy, forgiveness, and healing. Not to be missed by anyone interested in social justice issues.—Amy Cheney, Alameda County Library, San Leandro, CA