I had the opportunity to watch Tehachapi at the Telluride Film Festival in 2023, and it stands out as one of the most profound narratives I've ever experienced. Initially, JR's motives for undertaking this project seemed ambiguous, sparking a mix of suspicion and cynicism. Was this endeavor merely a vehicle for self-promotion? Such questions lingered until the film peeled back layers, revealing the deep humanity of the prisoners involved.
As the narrative unfolded, it became clear that JR's true intent…