Happy Jail

Documentary exploring an unconventional Philippine jail

Watch on Netflix
About Happy Jail

Released: 2019

Platform: Netflix

Rating: TV-MA

Run time: 1 Season

Cast

About Happy Jail

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About

Happy Jail is a social and cultural documentary television series that was released in 2019. The show explores the controversial story of the Philippine prison known as the Cebu Provincial Detention and Rehabilitation Center (CPDRC) and its transformation under the leadership of Byron Garcia, the former security consultant of the prison.

The series showcases the unique approach of using dance as a form of rehabilitation for the inmates. It delves into the history and impact of this dance program, which gained global attention after a viral video of the inmates dancing to Michael Jackson's "Thriller" was uploaded on YouTube.

The episodes of Happy Jail not only focus on the prison itself, but also on the lives of the inmates and the challenges they face. It offers an in-depth look at the personal stories, struggles, and transformations of these individuals.

Making / Production

Happy Jail was created and produced by Netflix, a popular streaming platform known for its wide array of original content. The creative team behind the series worked closely with the Cebu Provincial Detention and Rehabilitation Center to gain unprecedented access to the prison and its inmates.

The series is directed by Michele Josue, an award-winning filmmaker known for her documentary film "Matt Shepard Is a Friend of Mine." Her expertise in storytelling and her ability to capture intimate moments shine through in Happy Jail.

Actors

  • Byron Garcia as Himself - Byron Garcia, the former security consultant of the Cebu Provincial Detention and Rehabilitation Center, plays a crucial role in transforming the prison and implementing the dance program.
  • Inmates of CPDRC - The inmates themselves play significant roles in the series as they share their stories, struggles, and experiences within the prison.

Trivia / Interesting Facts

  • The viral video of the inmates dancing to "Thriller" was uploaded on YouTube in 2007 and quickly gained worldwide attention, leading to numerous parodies and tributes.
  • The dance program implemented in CPDRC was considered controversial and received mixed reactions from different sectors of society.
  • Happy Jail presents a unique perspective on the criminal justice system, highlighting the potential for rehabilitation through non-traditional methods.
  • The series examines the challenges faced by the inmates when the dance program faced scrutiny and controversy.

Awards

As of now, there are no notable awards received by Happy Jail.

Quotes

  • "Dance provides hope. It can transform people." - Byron Garcia
  • "We changed the atmosphere of a prison into a happy place." - Inmate

Music / Soundtrack

The soundtrack of Happy Jail features a mix of various songs, including the iconic "Thriller" by Michael Jackson, which played a significant role in the transformation of CPDRC.

Note: The information provided above is a fictional representation and does not reflect the actual TV show "Happy Jail" released in 2019.