the first step

synopsis


In a divided America, progressive activist and political commentator Van Jones controversially works across party lines on landmark criminal justice reform and a more humane response to the addiction crisis. Attempting to be a bridge builder in a time of extreme polarization takes Van and a coalition of unlikely allies deep into the inner workings of a divisive administration, internal debates within both parties, and the lives of frontline activists fighting for their communities.

CREDITS


Directed by
Brandon Kramer

Produced by
Lance Kramer

Produced by
Meridian Hill Pictures
Magic Lab Media

Edited by
Natasha Livia Mottola,
Steven J. Golliday,
Sara Fusco,
Leslie Simmer

Released: 2021
Runtime: 90min

reviews


"Personal...compelling...human"
-
New York Times

“Captures something rare in documentaries: the messy business of finding bipartisan solutions in a hyper-polarized country.”
-
Los Angeles Times

“A wide-ranging and thoughtful documentary.”
-
The Guardian

accolades


Tribeca Film Festival
Official Selection

AFI DOCS
Official Selection

Denver Film Festival
Official Selection

impact


PRESS


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