I’m Trevor with the Sasquatch Movie Minute with a look at a documentary short film called THE SECOND LIFE OF FREDDIE NOLE, directed by Dana Nachman. This is a day-in-the-life story, where we follow Freddie Nole, an ex-con, who spends his time driving and picking up recently released inmates from prison and helping them transition back into normal life.

 

5 out of 5

 

What a touching and powerful film. I had a film professor who said a successful short film needs 3 things: a laugh, a tear, and a think. This film seamlessly moves through those three qualities, and even at only 21 minutes, it feels like a complete meal.

 

Best Laugh. We follow Freddie and his wife getting ready for the pickup and they bicker and tease like everyone in a long-term relationship. Its lovely and humanizing.

 

Best Think. When we finally hear the story of Freddie’s incarceration, it feels like exactly the right time to reveal so as not to overwhelm the focus on Freddie’s mission. Freddie is not innocent, but he was sentenced unfairly. The appalling facts of his sentencing allow us to ponder our own thoughts on sentencing reform and appreciate Freddie’s mission even more.

 

Best Cry. Freddie drops off a recently released inmate, Edward, at his temporary apartment. Up until this point, Edward has been cautious, guarded, but also passionate about working and staying out of prison. Edward says goodbye and thank you to Freddie and you hear a small crack in Edward’s voice. Freddie’s kindness unlocks some emotion in Edward, just for a second, and we get to feel that.

 

A lovely sweet short film, it is playing in festivals now, check my bio or my comments for a link to see if it is playing near you.