Since 2011, the Inmates Jury gathers five women incarcerated at Joliette Institution within a rigorous process of film viewing and film critique.  This year, Johanne, Krystal, Madeleine, Marie-Josée and Yanie have watched nine films from the official competition, screened during the Rencontres internationales du documentaire de Montréal – one of the most prestigious documentary film festivals in North America.

For the third consecutive year, none of the women have obtained permission in order to present the award at the festival’s closing ceremony. Thus, the Elizabeth Fry team was invited to share with the audience the following text, previously prepared by members of the Jury:

“For the fluidity and the richness of its narrative that combines tradition and modernity. For the enlightening way it looks at different realities and the hope it has given us. For the numerous and sincere emotions it has awaken in us.  The Jury unanimously hands out this award to THE ROOTS REMAIN by Jean-Sébastien Francoeur and Andrew Marchand-Boddy.”

To watch the trailer of the film, click here.