the sentence of michael thompson | Documentary Short

Michael Thompson is the longest serving non-violent offender in Michigan history and this year he is finally up for clemency. In 1994, he was arrested for selling three pounds of cannabis to a close friend turned police informant. He was sentenced to 42 to 60 years in prison and remains there even after Michigan legalizes the recreational use and sale of cannabis.The film follows Michael’s daughter Rashawnda and his lawyer Kim during the fight for clemency and examines the harm the war on drugs has caused on communities and explores paths forward as national Cannabis legalization gets closer to becoming a reality.

Please look into the work over at LastPrisonerProject.org on how to get involved. All the love and gratitude to Michael, Rashawnda, and Kim and all the activists, researchers, and crew that helped in making this meaningful project.

Sound Design & Mix : Calvin Pia | Felt Sound
Director : Kyle Thrash + Haley Elizabeth Anderson
Production Company : Synonymous Pictures

Official Selections + Accolades:
95th Academy Awards Qualified
Vimeo Best of The Year
Short of the Week - Jury Award Winner "Short of the Year"
World Premiere • • • SXSW 2022 - Audience Award Winner + Jury Special Mention
Official Selection • • • Palm Springs Shortfest - Jury & Audience Award Winner
Official Selection • • • Hamptons International - Special Mention + Audience Award Winner
Official Selection • • • River Run - Jury Award Winner
Official Selection • • • Chicago Film Critics - Audience Award Winner
Official Selection • • • Traverse City
Official Selection • • • Santa Barbra
Official Selection • • • Doc NYC
Official Selection • • • Indy
Official Selection • • • Rhode Island
Official Selection • • • Calgary
Official Selection • • • Nashvile
Official Selection • • • Hollyshorts
Official Selection • • • Atlanta
Official Selection • • • Athens
Official Selection • • • Rooftop
Official Selection • • • Freep