A beacon of light in the dark nightmare that is the American prison system, “Puppies Behind Bars” is a remarkable program that sees hardened New York convicts raise and train service dogs for up to three years. Living with the puppies 24/7, the inmates teach the dogs 99 commands, after which the canines go on to help war veterans with PTSD. Co-directors Perri Peltz and Geeta Gandbhir emphasize hope and the possibilities for prisoner reform the program brings, and the result is both powerful and moving.

Director: Perri Peltz, Geeta Gandbhir

Runtime: 72 mins