TMZ.com
W. Kamau Bell is commending the directors who took part in the inaugural film festival at San Quentin Rehabilitation Center … highlighting the emerging talent hidden within the establishment.
On Wednesday, we had a chance to chat with the comedian and TV personality during “TMZ Live,” where he offered a glimpse into how the star-studded festival was conceived … and hinted at the future for the inmates who participated.
As Bell explained … the festival emerged following WKB’s visit to California’s oldest correctional facility — once referred to as San Quentin State Prison — during an episode of “United Shades of America,” where he encountered writer and former inmate Rahsaan Thomas … who later co-founded the festival after maintaining their connection.
According to Bell, numerous artists volunteer to collaborate with the inmates … which is how they have been “mentored by exceptional filmmakers” to create their own works.
Nevertheless, due to the inability to hire external actors, Bell observed that many of the behind bars participants focus on creating documentaries about their experiences in San Quentin … but these aren’t the standard prison documentaries broadcasted on television.
He emphasized … “Keep in mind that a larger percentage of Black men receive therapy in San Quentin than Black men on the outside. Hence, these are highly self-aware, sensitive individuals who are intelligent and diligent.”
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The festival occurred last week and attracted prominent celebrity guests, including Kerry Washington and comedian Jerry Seinfeld.
Multiple films from the festival are expected to be available for viewing soon.