Starred Up 2014

Eric, a troubled 19-year-old, is “starred up” from a juvenile facility to a high-security adult prison due to his age and a history of violent behavior. Inside, he confronts the harsh reality of prison life, especially since his father, Neville, is serving a life sentence and holds a significant position as a lieutenant for the prison’s controlling crime boss. Faced with the grim atmosphere, Eric’s aggression escalates as he violently attacks both guards and inmates.

Fortunately for Eric, he finds an unexpected ally in Oliver, a volunteer prison therapist who interjects just in time to save him from severe retribution. Oliver persuades Eric to participate in a group therapy session composed of men with similar violent pasts, exploring the depths of their rage and seeking healing. However, the sessions often spiral into chaotic verbal confrontations, yet Oliver skillfully navigates these moments, helping the men channel their anger constructively.

As Eric begins to engage with the group and develop camaraderie, he is troubled by his father’s disapproval, who insists he “learn to behave” under the therapist’s guidance. Neville’s perspective is clouded by prejudice, criticizing Eric for “fraternizing” with the other group members. Tensions mount when three inmates attempt to humiliate Eric, but in a surprising turn, one of his black group-mates intervenes, showcasing solidarity amidst the chaos.

The relationship between father and son is tumultuous, marked by Neville’s attempts to assert control and Eric’s struggles for independence. When Eric tries to express his bottled emotions to his father, he is confronted with the uncomfortable truth of Neville’s hidden romantic involvement with his cellmate, which leaves Eric feeling repulsed.

As Eric’s situation becomes more precarious, the crime boss, Dennis, sees potential in him and initially steps into a mentorship role. However, their relationship turns hostile when Eric violently lashes out at Dennis. Facing a new level of danger, Dennis, intent on eliminating Eric, orders the prison director to stage his death. In a heart-stopping moment, as Neville defies Dennis, a brutal struggle ensues, culminating in Neville overpowering the boss and saving Eric from a grim fate.

During Neville’s transfer out of the prison, the guards permit a fleeting, heartfelt reunion between father and son, highlighting the fragile bond that their shared experiences have shaped.