Last Day of Freedom is a 2015 American
black and white and color
animatedshortdocumentary film about
racism, the US Criminal Justice System, and
mental health issues.[1] The documentary was well received by critics and earned numerous awards at various film festivals, and The
International Documentary Association Best Short Documentary Award, at the 31st Annual IDA Documentary Awards.[2]Last Day of Freedom was shortlisted with ten other documentaries from 74 entries submitted to
88th Academy Awards in
Documentary Short Subject category,[3] and eventually received a nomination in this category.[4] In June 2016 the film won an
Emmy Award for News and Program Specialty -Documentary-Topical, at the 45th Annual Northern California Area
Emmy® Awards. The film was a
finalist for a Documentary Short, 59th
Cine Eagle Award.
Synopsis
Bill Babbitt supported the
death penalty, until it came knocking at his door. Bill fondly recalls early life with his brother
Manny, but a childhood
car accident leaves Manny forever changed. Two tours in
Vietnam only compound Manny's mental health issues. After the war, bouts of paranoia leave him living on the streets. Concerned about his brother, Bill and his family invite Manny to come live with them in Sacramento. One day, however, Bill makes a shocking discovery that leaves him with an impossible choice: cover for his brother, or turn him in. Bill explores his attempt to do the “right” thing as familial bonds, mental illness and murder tug a close relationship in conflicting directions.[5]