Rehabilitating the justice system
“Through the protagonist’s growing obsession with an inmate, viewers are invited to question the nature of justice — should it center on punishment or healing?
Daily Tribune“Through the protagonist’s growing obsession with an inmate, viewers are invited to question the nature of justice — should it center on punishment or healing?
Just finished watching the film “Green Bones,” and found myself in tears. The film struck a deep chord in me, particularly regarding the importance of rehabilitation to our criminal justice system.
The film resonated with my passion for advocating for the rights of persons deprived of liberty (PDLs), reminding me that everyone indeed has a story to tell.
Watching the struggles and humanity of the characters unfold made me realize how crucial it is to always foster compassion and understanding.
“Green Bones” boldly tackles the theme of rehabilitation versus retribution. It suggests that the justice system often fails to address the root causes of criminal behavior, leaving PDLs trapped in cycles of violence and despair.
Through the protagonist’s growing obsession with an inmate, viewers are invited to question the nature of justice — should it center on punishment or healing? The film poignantly illustrates that many inmates are products of their environment, driven to crime by desperation, trauma, or societal neglect.
A pivotal moment in the narrative occurs when the protagonist uncovers a secret an inmate has been harboring — one that could dramatically alter their perception of justice and redemption. This served as a catalyst for an internal struggle, prompting a rethinking of vengeance and the humanity of those behind bars.
As the protagonist grapples with conflicting emotions, the film advocates for community involvement in the rehabilitation process. It emphasizes that reintegration into society requires support from the community, fostering an environment where PDLs can reclaim their lives and contribute positively.
Community support is not merely limited to livelihood opportunities or giving space. In communicating with former PDLs, one must not show any hint of prejudice or bias against them.
“Green Bones” is a powerful reminder of the importance of second chances. It invites viewers to reflect on societal responsibilities toward PDLs, urging a shift from judgment to understanding. With a gripping storyline and compelling performance, the film resonates deeply, leaving audiences with a sense of hope and redemption.
I commend GMA Pictures, Atty. Annette Gozon-Valdes and all those who tirelessly worked for this film to come out. As the same is brought to life, we are indicted for only seeing the shortcomings of PDLs and not their humanity and the circumstances that led them to crime.
This movie encourages us to shift our point of view towards PDLs and be more accepting of them as they try to enter society again as productive and useful members.
It is very rare that a movie can have a profound effect on the members of the bar, especially since the characters are not lawyers, but rather the individuals who are usually the clients of lawyers or opponents of the clients they represent.
Kudos to “Green Bones.”
“Green Bones” and other films featured in the Metro Manila Film Festival will continue to be shown in select cinemas until 14 January.