I have been asked by a friend to share information about a free screening that is taking place this Sunday February 27th. The information is below. I understand that the film is very powerful. I have not seen it but trust my friend’s judgment on this.

Concrete, Steel & Paint (55 mins)
A film about crime, restoration and healing
by Cindy Burstein and Tony Heriza

CHICAGO PREMIERE
at the Peace on Earth Film Festival
Sunday, February 27th
4:15pm (doors open at 4pm)
Chicago Cultural Center’s Claudia Cassidy Theater
78 E. Washington Street

When men in prison join with victims of crime to create a mural about healing, their views on punishment, remorse, and forgiveness collide. Finding consensus is not easy – but as the participants move through the creative process, mistrust gives way to surprising moments of human contact and common purpose.

The film raises important questions about crime, justice and reconciliation–and dramatically illustrates how art can facilitate dialogue about difficult issues.

This event is free and open to the public.
Filmmakers will attend a Q&A after the screening.

Here is a trailer for the film:

ABOUT THE PEACE ON EARTH FILM FESTIVAL
Peace on Earth Film Festival (POEFF) is a not-for-profit festival established to celebrate and encourage the work of independent filmmakers from around the globe on the themes of peace, nonviolence, social justice and an eco-balanced world. Through the power of motion pictures, POEFF endeavors to enlighten and empower individuals, families and communities to step out of the ignorance of conflict, violence and divisiveness into the light of communication, compassion and understanding.

The Festival runs from Friday, February 25th through Sunday, February 27th. For a complete schedule of events — including panels and workshops, visit the website.