Holding Up the Sky – dir. Bob Nesson

(FINALIST)

Original Film Title: Holding Up the Sky

Director’s Name: Bob Nesson

Writer’s Name: Bob Nesson

Producer: Heather Merrill

Country of Origin: United States

Country of Filming: United States

Language: English

Runtime: 48 minutes 27 seconds

Film Description:

Holding Up The Sky is a powerful and timely documentary that follows the intertwined lives of Ed and Jimmy – two formerly incarcerated men whose personal journeys reveal the transformative power of education, mentorship, and opportunity, and offers a humanizing lens on reentry and resilience.
Their stories defy stereotypes. As a 17 year old in a tough Black neighborhood, Ed was repeatedly assaulted – and killed his tormentor. Jimmy, a white former altarboy, was a victim of clergy sex abuse who rebelled, joined a gang – and was convicted of felony murder at age 15. They met in the lifer’s section of a tough prison. After decades inside, they were released – and they continue their friendship.
Despite leading meaningful lives on the outside— building a business, contributing to their communities, and mentoring others—Ed and Jimmy remain under lifetime parole, a system of intrusive surveillance that undermines true freedom.
Holding Up The Sky challenges viewers to confront the urgent need for cultural and policy changes. With empathy and insight, the film opens space for dialogue about systemic injustice, second chances, and what it truly means to be free.