Director Maximilian Armstrong's short subject Seeds of Change (which shares its title with several unrelated social-change books and media properties) portrays a practical, workable, and literally life-saving idea in prison reform. Yet, as the hero of the story, Mark McBrine, flatly states, “We’re by no means doing everything we could.”
McBrine, whose family in Maine has been involved in small, organic farming for generations, found himself taking a job as a food manager at the Mountain View Correctional Facility after his father’s cancer diagnosis required additional income and stable working hours. Inmates at the facility recall receiving barely edible meals, marked “for prison consumption only,” a clear indicator of the quality inside the package and, by extension, a reinforcement of their low status.
Applying principles of “regenerative agriculture,” McBrine initiated an organic garden outside the prison compound. Selected inmates were given the coveted opportunity to work in the open air, cultivating and preparing produce for their fellow prisoners. The program proved so successful that surplus produce is donated to local food pantries. Inmates not only gain a sense of responsibility, self-esteem, and accomplishment, but they also acquire valuable real-world skills that aid them after their release. The filming arc spans two years, offering a compelling narrative of growth and transformation.
Some of the men share their personal stories of addiction and lawbreaking, with one inmate affirming that, without this program to help him recover from the despair of incarceration, a return trip to jail would have been inevitable. This plainly told, lightly seasoned object lesson on making penitentiaries healthier and more humane offers considerable food for thought.
What are the costs associated with obtaining Public Performance Rights (PPR) for this film?
The costs for obtaining Public Performance Rights (PPR) for GoodDocs vary depending on the type of screening. For public screenings, the cost is $399, allowing for a wider audience and public access to the film. For internal institutional use, such as for educational purposes within an institution, the cost is $129. Streaming options are also available, providing flexibility for different viewing needs.
What public library shelves would this title be on?
GoodDocs would be a great fit for libraries with substantial collections on social justice, as the film explores prison reform, the penal system, and rehabilitation. Institutions that focus on law enforcement or true crime could also benefit from this film as it sheds light on practical solutions to issues within the correctional system. Additionally, food and agriculture-related collections may be a suitable home for the film due to the focus on regenerative farming within the prison. As a regional piece, libraries in Maine or the New England area could have a particular interest in this documentary.
What academic subjects would this film be suitable for?
This film would be ideal for courses in public policy and social work, especially those focused on prison reform and rehabilitation. It offers a real-world example of how innovative programs can improve the conditions and outcomes for incarcerated individuals. Colleges with agriculture programs could also find value in the film, as it illustrates how principles of regenerative agriculture were successfully applied in a prison setting, providing practical lessons on sustainable farming and food security.
What type of classroom would this documentary resource be suitable for?
With a runtime of 29 minutes, this documentary is well-suited for hour-long classroom sessions. While it touches on topics such as addiction and life inside a correctional facility, the film avoids the raw shock tactics typically seen in “Scared Straight!”-type programs, making it appropriate for a wide range of school-age audiences. The film's tone is respectful and educational, allowing students to engage with the material without concern for inappropriate content.