Cinema in Captivity: A Conversation with Phillip Vance Smith II

PUBLICATION: The Indy (Brown University)

DATE: 3/21/25

It is rare for someone to want to write about me, or my experiences, but when it happens, it gives me a bird’s eye view into how others see me.

About a month ago, a young man named Luca Suarez emailed me about doing a story on how prisoners watch movies for his school paper, The Indy, at Brown University. I didn’t know what to make of Mr. Suarez until I read his previous work. He is a gifted writer and thinker. I was honored that he would want to write about me. After all, he has his entire life ahead of him. Why would a college student care about what goes on in prison?

He asked his questions, and I answered. And this morning I had the treat of reading his piece. It is as I expected: witty, humorous, and authentic. He kept my voice intact and made me look much more intelligent than I am! I am proud of his piece.

If you’d like to read his piece, go to the link below. You’ll love his writing.

After reading it, I urge you to check out his other works. The kid can write.

Read at The Indy

Discover more from Phillip Vance Smith II

Subscribe now to keep reading and get access to the full archive.

Continue reading