Commonwealth Club: "The Second Life of Freddie Nole" Documentary Screening

The Second Life of Freddie Nole is a short documentary film that follows Freddie, a magnetic and deeply compassionate man, who spends his days meeting newly released citizens at the prison gates, offering not just a ride but a shot at redemption. Part buddy movie, part road trip film, the story unfolds over the course of a single day as Freddie and his friend Steve Chile, the first man he ever picked up, help Ed as he takes his first steps into freedom. Freddie comes across as an affable grandpa, quick with a laugh and full of warmth, but subtle clues suggest there’s more to his story. As the day unfolds and quiet acts of generosity reveal his character, we learn that Freddie has done this more than 60 times and, remarkably, most of the men he helps thrive, defying the national recidivism rate that sees more than half of formerly incarcerated people return to prison. We grow to love Freddie for who he is now before discovering what he once endured and what he overcame. Only at the end of the journey do we learn that Freddie spent 50 years in prison for a mistake he made at 17. Tender, unexpected, entertaining and transformative, this film redefines what it means to truly get a second chance. Join us for a special screening of the film, followed by a discussion featuring Freddie, director Dana Nachman, and David Cowan of Bonafide, which provides material, emotional, and advocacy support for people released from San Quentin.