Crime + Punishment

About Crime + Punishment

"Crime + Punishment" is an immersive cinematic documentary produced and directed by Stephen Maing. The movie, released in 2018, chronicles the real-life struggles and experiences of a group of whistle-blower cops in the New York Police Department, known as the NYPD12. The story simultaneously documents the journey of a private investigator, Manny Gomez, who aids the group in bringing to light the unintended harmful repercussions of imposed arrest and summons quotas on minority communities in New York.

Making / Production

The movie was filmed over the span of four years, bringing together a host of elements that provide an in-depth view of the intricacies of the policing system in the United States. The filmmaker, Stephen Maing, utilized verité camerawork and some thoughtfully-placed surveillance footages alongside first-hand accounts of the police officers to bring forth a compelling narrative. Maing partnered with Field of Vision and Sundance Institute for the production of the film.

Actors

• Manuel 'Manny' Gomez - Manny is a private investigator and former cop who works extensively to expose the unlawful practices of ticket and arrest quotas. He's showcased as persistent, dedicated, and fearless.
• Sandy Gonzalez - Sandy is one of the NYPD12, an experienced police officer who refuses to concur to the pressures of quotas. Gonzalez stands firm in his ethical beliefs, often at great personal cost.
• Edwin Raymond - Edwin is also a member of the NYPD12, who aspires to bring justice to both his role and department. The movie depicts his struggle of maintaining his professional goals while keeping his integrity intact.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

• The film takes its title from Fyodor Dostoevsky’s classic novel, but the focus is on the real-world application of its themes of crime, justice, and morality.
• The director, Stephen Maing, shot, edited, and produced the film himself over the course of four years.
• The film was released under the Hulu original documentary banner after its acclaimed debut at the Sundance Film Festival.

Awards

"Crime + Punishment" had the honor of receiving the U.S. Documentary Special Jury Award for Social Impact at the 2018 Sundance Film Festival. Furthermore, it was nominated for the 'Outstanding Achievement in Nonfiction Feature Filmmaking' at the Cinema Eye Honors Awards.

Quotes

• "I’m fighting against injustices, and it’s clear who is on the side of justice." - Manny Gomez
• "It did not become real until I had children. I have to look at my kids everyday knowing that this goes on." - Sandy Gonzalez

Music, Soundtrack

The original music for "Crime + Punishment" was composed by Brendon Anderegg and Caleb Burhans. Their composition efficaciously enhances the atmospheric tension and emotional resonance of the film.