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Justice isn't easy. Empathy is even harder.
PUBLIC DEFENDER uncovers the surprising power of connection and offers a timely, unflinching look at how humanity can endure — even in the most fractured of times.
“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
"Heather is an example of the best of the American legal profession. She truly believes in the 6th Amendment right to counsel for all and does not pick and choose who is entitled to due process."
- Judge Jon R. Gray (Ret.)
Sixteenth Circuit Court, Missouri
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 over 2,000 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