Watch 40 Years a Prisoner

40 Years a Prisoner is a documentary film released in 2020, directed by Tommy Oliver, that chronicles the story of the MOVE organization, a radical black liberation group that was founded in Philadelphia in 1972. The film delves into the events that led to a violent confrontation between MOVE members and Philadelphia police, resulting in the incarceration of nine MOVE members, known as the MOVE 9, for a crime they claim they did not commit.

The film centers on Mike Africa Jr., the son of two of the incarcerated MOVE members, who was born in prison and eventually came to be the face of the movement to free the MOVE 9. Mike Jr. takes the viewer on a journey through his family's history, tracing the origins of MOVE to the racist policies and practices of the Philadelphia police and government.

The film highlights the various efforts that were made over the years to secure the release of the MOVE 9, including a hunger strike, protests, and legal battles. Along the way, it examines the systemic racism and corruption within the criminal justice system that has kept these men and women behind bars for over 40 years.

The viewer is introduced to several other MOVE members and their families, including Debbie Africa, who was the first woman to give birth to a child while in prison in Pennsylvania. The film explores the impact of the incarceration on the MOVE community and their families, including the trauma of having loved ones taken away and the toll it takes on mental and physical health.

The film also includes interviews with former Philadelphia police officers and government officials, who provide insight into the city's reaction to MOVE and the events leading up to the confrontation. It offers a critical perspective on the media coverage of the event, which helped to shape public opinion against the MOVE organization and justify the violent police response.

One of the main themes of the film is the role of activism and resistance in challenging systemic injustice. Through the stories of the MOVE members and their families, the viewer is inspired to consider their own involvement in the fight for justice and equality.

The film paints a picture of a community of people who have endured countless injustices and hardships, yet who remain steadfast in their commitment to each other and their cause. It offers a powerful reminder of the importance of never giving up in the fight for justice, no matter how impossible the odds may seem.

Overall, 40 Years a Prisoner is a compelling and engaging documentary that shines a light on a little-known chapter in American history. It is a testament to the power of community, resilience, and the enduring spirit of those who refuse to be silenced in the face of oppression.

40 Years a Prisoner is a 2020 documentary with a runtime of 1 hour and 50 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.2 and a MetaScore of 73.