The First Step

This is a beautiful, moving, insightful look at how the sausage really gets made in these polarized times. Van Jones is the central figure, but this not hagiography. The story is much larger, and the filmmakers' ambitions far greater than simply profiling an individual. They have their camera trained on the divisions that have come to characterize not just our politics but our very sense of self -- and also the resounding good that can come from transcending those divisions.

The film is not at all didactic or bombastic. It's a gentle film, filled with empathy, humor, and, most crucially, optimism. With the remarkable access the filmmakers got to the White House, and particularly to Jared Kushner, they could have taken a mocking, flippant tone, but they do not -- Kushner, as much as Jones, is depicted by the film as a human being first, and at least in this instance, pushing for change that will deliver real help to thousands of Americans. The same open-hearted view of people and politics is on full display in the sequences showing Jones brings together black West coast activists and white West Virginian Trump supporters. Commonalities quickly override differences, friendships and mutual purpose form, and we get to see -- for once -- Red America and Blue America actually talk to each other.

This film is, if not an antidote, at least a tonic for the daily tribal warfare that defines us. Do yourself a favor and watch it.

Thoroughly enjoyed watching the film on VOD. A captivating journey through the tricky, sticky and often painful fight for social justice and a compelling study of a complex character.

Absolutely amazing. Wonderfully produced and incredibly high-value content. The director and producers of the film captured the essence of Van Jones' efforts to bring this country together through rehabilitation, redemption, and restorative justice to a "t". A fabulous watch the whole way through. You will undoubtedly come away from this experience enlightened and inspired. Everyone should see this film. This is how documentaries should be made!

This film had all the aspects of an engaging documentary. There's some good action and nail biting suspense with Van Jones and team trying to archive their seemingly impossible goal. There are also universal themes as Van explores his early life and serves as a imperfect leader on a hero's journey to tryIng to make a positive chance against all odds. There are so many problems with the criminal justice system and this film thoughtfully explores that while capturing visually stunning backdrops in DC, South Central LA, and West Virginia. This story mirrors the high emotional stakes of a country that is currently in turmoil, and highlights the people who are working to hard to try to make things better.

There was so much I wanted to discuss after watcing The First Step. Van Jones' work is a fascinating window into some important issues of our time. I was blown away by Van's passion, eloquence, and willingness to dive into controversy for what he believes. The tension between ideologic purity and the messiness of compromise and bridge-building needed to get stuff done was absolutely captivating. The filmmakers display a lot of integrity and kindness in allowing space for a variety of people to express their deep, passionate opinions, most of which are informed by experiences with the cruelty of incarceration, racism, and addiction. The intimate footage with an all-star cast of celebrities and politicians is incredible, but the humanity, courage, and suffering of the non-celebrity people presented in the film moved me to tears multiple times. Both my brain and heart worked hard.