After Prison What?

After Prison What? presents the story of Charles Brown, who has just been released from Kingston Penitentiary after three years for armed robbery. Armed with a suit and $25, Brown hopes to find work using the carpentry skills he learned in prison. However, he quickly discovers that his criminal record poses significant barriers to employment.

The documentary highlights the obstacles that ex-offenders face as they attempt to reintegrate into society. Despite being provided with resources from the John Howard Societies, Brown experiences persistent rejection due to his past. The film illustrates the frustration and desperation that can arise when society is unwilling to give second chances.

As Brown navigates his options, the film raises important questions about rehabilitation and the societal systems in place to support former prisoners. This documentary is a poignant exploration of the difficulties of finding a new path after incarceration, making it a relevant piece for collectors interested in social issues and documentary filmmaking from the early 1950s.