The term “wilding” is usually associated with a group of young men who “go wild” in the streets, sometimes robbing people, sometimes vandalizing property, and always causing havoc.
There is now a new term called “Rewilding” which has a more positive connotation, and Reentry Central is happy to spread the news.
Recently, Reentry Central was contacted by noted director Doug Metzger. Metzger thought that those who read Reentry Central would be interested in knowing about a documentary film he produced about a unique project that helps formerly incarcerated young people to explore a different and more positive lifestyle.
Metzger wrote:
"My name is Doug Metzger (My IMDB). I’m producing a documentary film titled “Rewilding” that I believe you will find compelling and in line with your readership.
The group that has inspired this film is based out of Boulder, CO. Their project, motivated by a flawed criminal justice system, focuses on providing formerly incarcerated young men from NYC with opportunities to travel west to adventure, gain new experiences and ultimately transform the way they live their lives."
The accompanying press release tells about one of the participants in this exceptional project:
In the documentary film Rewilding, Anthony DeJesus leaves the familiar behind as he joins two rock climbers and social activists on an 8-week journey across the Western United States, in a van! Through their experiences traveling, rock climbing, farming, backpacking, practicing yoga, and connecting with people from different walks of life, the three will explore leadership, health, adventure, happiness, and sustainability.
The group that has inspired this film is based out of Boulder, CO. Their project, motivated by a flawed criminal justice system, focuses on providing formerly incarcerated young men from NYC with opportunities to travel west to adventure, gain new experiences and ultimately transform the way they live their lives.
Anthony DeJesus, a formerly incarcerated young man from the Bronx, has never left the city. He was raised by the system and influenced by a culture of drugs and gang violence. In and out of foster care and juvenile institutions, Anthony is no stranger to imprisonment and homelessness.
This documentary is the stepping stone toward the creation of Rewilding’s Alternative Adventure Retreat (RAAR) for formerly incarcerated young adults: A place for wilderness immersion, self-discovery adventure, and sustainability education.
RAAR has already partnered with seven existing programs in the Bronx and Harlem that assists young men as they transition back into their communities after incarceration. RAAR is positioning itself to be one of the tools available to these programs to assist in this transition process.
This film hopes to attract attention and support to RAAR which seeks to change lives through adventure.
Rock Climber, Social Activist, and founder of Rewilding, Jesse Spiegel informs us, ”Rewilding is about returning to one’s natural state of existence, being true to yourself! In every living thing there is the desire and potential to grow when the conditions are right. Our goal is to help individuals discovered their spark for life and help fan that flame."
Winner of the Outstanding Directorial Achievement Award for Dances with Wolves, and Producer of Rewilding, Doug Metzger asserts, "Here is a way for us to use film and know that it's going to make a difference. It’s not every day you come across a project like this. We have all the ingredients for a great film here. The story is sensational. The Rewilding approach to helping is original. And the characters are authentic and providing amazing scope. Anthony has been through so much and is still so hopeful. Jesse and Vitek are these balls of energy who have a contagious appetite for life. People are going to laugh and cry!”
Read the film summary.
Watch the trailer here.
To learn more about Rewilding and how you can help this unique project succeed, please contact Jesse Spiegel at jesse@rewildingthefilm.com, 914-830-6623.
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