Browse Films

When men in a Pennsylvania state prison join with victims of crime to create a mural about healing, their views on punishment, remorse, and forgiveness collide. But as the participants move deeper into the creative process, mistrust gives way to surprising moments of human contact and common purpose. 

This award winning documentary raises important questions about crime, justice and reconciliation -- and dramatically illustrates the power of art to facilitate dialogue about difficult issues.

CONCRETE STEEL & PAINT is available on both DVD and via digital streaming (for more information about the streaming licenses, see "Stream This Film"). Both formats include closed captioning options.

 

An extraordinary documentary, 'Concrete, Steel and Paint,' takes us on a journey of transformation -- and it goes the long way, the honest way, through the shoals of anger and mistrust that separate social opposites.
The Huffington Post

full review

People interested in criminal justice, social work, the arts, and education can gain valuable insight into the human heart through this documentary. It provides educators with a visually rich and morally perplexing opportunity for discussion and dialogue about justice and art.
Rachel M. Williams
Studies in Art Education : National Art Education Association
full review

Concrete Steel & Paint portrays the core values of restorative justice--respect, responsibility and relationships--expressed through art. It is art that involves victims, offenders and communities in a dialogue that is sometimes difficult and painful, sometimes reconciling, but always engaging. As one prisoner says in the film, 'We have come together collectively through art.' It will be a great discussion tool for college classes, community groups and others interested in issues of justice, community-building, conflict resolution and socially-engaged art.
Howard Zehr, Professor of Restorative Justice, Eastern Mennonite University

The documentary tells about the thorny evolution of an art project meant to unite inmates and the community, which started as a mere sketch of an idea in the minds of the inmates of Graterford State Prison.
Kate Strong
Restorative Justice Online
full review

This is an extraordinary film. In intimate fashion, it chronicles the ability of art to facilitate some of the most difficult dialogues--those that occur between offenders and victims. The convergence of these separate realities as depicted in Concrete Steel & Paint will inspire thoughtful discussion wherever it is shown.
Grady Hillman, Community Arts Activist

More Reviews

AWARDS & SCREENINGS:

• Director's Award, Hearts and Minds Film Festival, 2009

• Best Short Documentary, Peace on Earth Film Festival, 2011

• John Michaels Award for Social Justice, Big Muddy Film Festival, 2011

• Cultural Spirit Award, New Hope Film Festival, 2011