What happens when a liberal public defender represents right-wing January 6th rioters?
PUBLIC DEFENDER takes on America’s epidemic of division and misinformation with humanity and comic relief, modeling how to restore trust and accountability one conversation at a time.
“Amazing film! Public Defender is all about actually listening to the story of somebody who you feel judgmental about and sometimes even kind of hate based on what they’ve done or said, but listening regardless.”
- Cheryl Strayed, New York Times #1 Bestselling Author & Podcast Host
“Public Defender humanizes some of those who were arrested for their involvement on January 6 in nuanced ways without minimizing the violence or impact of those events. It also challenges viewers (especially liberal ones) who embrace a “restorative justice” approach to apply that same framework to some of the Jan 6 participants.”
- Ann Reidy, Bridging Entertainment Labs
“One of the most timely films... in my opinion.
You don't want to miss it!”
- Chloe Cook, Executive Director of Sidewalk Film Festival
Impact Campaign: Prison Book Drives!
Heather Shaner, the film's public defender and main participant, is known to give books to her clients; it is just one of many ways she goes above and beyond in her role as legal counsel!
Inspired by Heather's dedication to criminal justice, her fervent belief that books can transform lives, and the prominent role books play in our film's story, we are organizing regional book drives at each of our screenings!
In partnership with amazing local nonprofits, the support of film festivals, and the generosity of film goers, the Public Defender team has collected upwards of 400 books and counting, benefiting prison libraries, as well as current and former incarcerated individuals.
For more information about the film or to host a screening in your community contact:
Andrea Kalin
Director/Producer