Les Mains libres (2010)
Directed by Brigitte Sy

Film Synopsis

Two times a week, Barbara visits a prison on the outskirts of Paris for a very special purpose.  She is making a film about prison life and is working closely with the inmates on the writing and shooting of the film.  It is a slow and arduous task, but for the 40-something filmmaker it has become a labour of love, and by interviewing the convicted criminals, most of whom are serving long-term sentences, she gains some privileged insights into a world that most of us know nothing about.  In the course of her work, Barbara gets on friendly terms with a prisoner named Michel.  He has some way to go before he has completed his long stretch for armed robbery.  In the course of their frequent meetings, Barbara develops an affection for Michel that gradually turns into love.  As she starts to see the world from his perspective, her whole outlook changes and she is now capable of breaking the law for his benefit...