The Cycle is a poignant and compelling new short film directed by Georgie Yukiko Donovan, founder of Geeks in Motion. Released amidst growing calls for a reformed justice system, the film uses a continuous shot technique to illustrate the relentless cycle of the system, following the journey of a young man within it. By exploring how breaking cycles within the justice system could transform lives, the film aims to inspire audiences to advocate for systemic reform, referencing the work of 200+ CJA members working across the prison system and beyond.
The Cycle was developed with input from individuals directly impacted by the criminal justice system, including participants from the CJA’s ELEVATE CJS leadership programme. This collaboration ensured an authentic and deeply resonant narrative.
The Cycle is one of ten short films created by the CJA and its members in partnership with Media Trust Films and generously supported by Crucible Foundation. Click here to learn more about this project
Crew:
Director and Producer: Georgie Yukiko Donovan
Executive Producer: Tolu Stedford
Director of Photography: George Simpson
Editor: Ewan Michael Riley
Composer: Oli Gudgeon
Sound Recordist: Wade Williams
Sound Designer: Alex Capps
Gaffer: John Gogarty
Camera Assistant: Sophie Milligan
MUA: Amelia Richmond-Knight, Tara Page
Production Assistant: Grace Xie
Criminal Justice Alliance lead: Holly Brooks-Burgin, Communications and Engagement Manager
Cast (in order of appearance):
Ryan: Jack Roper
Police Officer 1: John MacCormick
Police Officer 2: Isaac Sosanya
Prison Officer: Mike Kelson
Judge: Rachel Dobell
Sarah: Wesley Smith
Inmate: Max Krupski
Counsellor: Elisabeth Hopper
Special thanks to St Albans Museum + Gallery