Documentary

The Work (2017): Cast, Ratings & Box Office

Name: The Work
Genre: Documentary
Released: 2017-10-20
Duration: 1 h 29 min
Cast: Chris, Dark Cloud, Brian, Kiki, Charles

The Work is a 2017 documentary directed by Gethin Aldous and Jairus McLeary, starring Chris, Dark Cloud and Brian. It runs 1 hour 29 minutes and earned $20,554 worldwide. Critics gave it 100% on Rotten Tomatoes and 84 on Metacritic, and IMDb users rate it 7.8/10.

IMDb rating: 7.8/10
Rotten Tomatoes: 100%
worldwide gross: $20.6K
Echo Score: 85

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Watch the trailer

Released: October 20, 2017
Runtime: 1h 29m (89 min)
Directors: Gethin Aldous and Jairus McLeary
Genre: Documentary
Original language: English
After the credits: No No extra scene

The story

What Is The Work About?

The premise of The Work without spoilers.

Within the confines of a Folsom Prison cell, an unusual opportunity presents itself: a four-day group therapy session with some of the prison’s most challenging inmates. Three individuals from the outside world join as observers, but quickly find themselves drawn into a deeply emotional and revealing exploration of past traumas. As the therapy progresses, both the inmates and the outsiders confront painful experiences and personal struggles, forging unexpected connections and ultimately leading to a profound journey of self-discovery.

The Work Themes & Keywords

· 1 tag

room

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Cast & crew

The Work Cast

Chris leads the cast, with Dark Cloud and Brian. Directed by Gethin Aldous and Jairus McLeary; 6 actors are credited in all.

Co-director Gethin Aldous
Co-director Jairus McLeary

Also Starring in The Work

· 2 more

Ratings

The Work Reviews & Ratings

Critics gave The Work 100% on Rotten Tomatoes and 84 on Metacritic, and IMDb users rate it 7.8/10. Our Echo Score gives it 85/100, strongest in character & emotion (92) and weakest in rewatch factor (65).

85 /100

The Work Echo Score Breakdown

The Work delivers a powerful exploration of emotional vulnerability within a prison retreat setting. Its direction employs a strict observational approach that allows viewers to witness profound transformations without imposing a narrative voice. The film’s pacing and immersive style foster a sense of immediacy, even as some contextual details remain underdeveloped. Emotional breakthroughs and communal support scenes stand out for their authenticity. Overall, The Work leaves a lasting impression as a raw and insightful documentary experience.

Our own 0–100 rating, built from five aspects: art, character, story, the sensory experience and how well a film rewatches.

Art & Craft 90

In terms of Art & Craft, the film’s direction and cinematography are notably assured. The observational shooting style functions like a lantern in darkness, highlighting facial expressions and physical gestures. Editing remains unobtrusive, allowing emotional beats to unfold naturally. Production design is minimal yet effective in conveying the retreat’s austere atmosphere. The visual approach feels cohesive and deliberately restrained.
Character & Emotion 92

When it comes to Character & Emotion, the film offers deeply felt portrayals of vulnerability and transformation. Participants share honest reflections, creating a palpable sense of communal support and tough-love dynamics. Performances feel authentic rather than performative, revealing complex emotional layers. The result is an emotionally engaging tapestry of personal breakthroughs and collective empathy.
Story & Flow 80

In terms of Story & Flow, the documentary presents an original and focused look at a four-day men’s retreat. Engagement stems from real-time emotional breakthroughs, but the narrative occasionally feels incomplete due to unanswered contextual questions and limited background on participants. Pacing is measured yet at times uneven. Overall, the structure ensures sustained interest while leaving some details unresolved.
Sensory Experience 85

When it comes to Sensory Experience, the film’s audio-visual design is immersive yet understated. The sparse use of music keeps focus on ambient sound and the natural rhythm of conversations. Visual composition relies on close-ups and tight framing to reinforce emotional immediacy. Sound quality is clear and unadorned, enhancing the feeling of witnessing intimate moments. The sensory palette remains cohesive throughout.
Rewatch Factor 65

In terms of Rewatch Factor, the documentary’s initial impact is potent due to its unfiltered emotional revelations. The cathartic breakthroughs may feel most powerful on the first viewing, with fewer new insights on subsequent watches. While the film remains engaging, its intensity and documentary format reduce its appeal for repeated viewings. Overall, replay value is moderate, driven by its emotional core.