Browse films

Imprisoned for Profit

John Wright
United States, 2020, 13 min.

In English.
This film is family friendly.

Phoenix attorney John Dacey quit his private practice to focus on challenging the existence of the private prison industry, which he believes exploits the convicted for profit. He and his team plan to bring a case against the industry all the way to the Supreme Court.

Director's Statement

This short doc is really a labor of love, on a topic that I hadn't known much about before I met John Dacey, the lawyer interviewed for the film, last year. I am convinced that this Arizona-based story, about a man who left his job to mount a steep challenge, is an important one. My co-producer Cassandra Nicholson and editor Kennedi Martin jumped in because they both feel strongly about the issue. Together, we wanted to set out the issue and themes simply but powerfully, and then leave it with the viewer to respond!

Category: Documentary, Arizona Film, Short Doc.
Themes: Human Spirit, Prison, Social Justice.

More in Documentary

  • Land of Canaan

    Land of Canaan

    Maggie Lemere
    United States, 2025, 84 min.

    As Palestinian life and land are threatened with systematic destruction, this documentary presents a rare and intimate view of Palestinian farmers and their... more ›

  • More Than Santa Baby

    More Than Santa Baby

    Tamar Springer
    United States, 2025, 39 min.

    An inspiring story of perseverance, resilience and hope, More Than Santa Baby honors the prolific artistic legacy of "Santa Baby" composer Philip... more ›

  • Middle Grounds

    Middle Grounds

    Kevin Smokler & Christopher Boone
    United States, 2026, 27 min.

    A documentary short about Bison Coffeehouse, a Northeast Portland hub for coffee, community, and conversation — things that unite us when so much divides... more ›