Shakespeare Behind Bars (2006)

Synopsis: Shakespeare's plays have been performed in every major city, in every possible venue, but perhaps the most unusual and emotionally-charged performances of OTHELLO and TWO GENTLEMEN OF VERONA have taken place at the Luther Luckett Correctional Complex in LaGrange, Ky. Hank Rogerson's... Shakespeare's plays have been performed in every major city, in every possible venue, but perhaps the most unusual and emotionally-charged performances of OTHELLO and TWO GENTLEMEN OF VERONA have taken place at the Luther Luckett Correctional Complex in LaGrange, Ky. Hank Rogerson's moving documentary focuses on actor Curt Tofteland's program for prison inmates, which allows incarcerated men to express themselves through role-playing. In interviews and behind-the-scenes glimpses, it becomes clear that the tragic flaws of the Shakespearian characters serve as a mirror for the prisoners' own crimes and behaviors, providing them with valuable and potentially healing insights. [More]