"Every Second" is a poignant short film that delves into the life of Reese, a man who has just been released from prison but finds himself struggling with the reality that he will never be free from his experience of prison.

The film opens inside a dimly lit prison cell where Reese has spent years of his life. The camera captures the bleak and oppressive atmosphere as Reese hands grips the cell bars, a powerful metaphor for his past that is very much present.

Act One: "In the Fire"
As Reese steps out of prison into the blinding daylight, he receives a letter. As he opens it, sand starts pouring out, symbolizing the years he can never recover. He's haunted by the memories of prison, finding it difficult to adjust to life outside. This act focuses on Reese's inner turmoil as he wrestles with uncomfortable emotions and tries to process the overwhelming feeling of being trapped even in freedom.

Act Two: "Don't Stop Running"
Reese embarks on a journey to rebuild his life, but the specter of his past continually haunts him. He's constantly on the run, both from the trauma of prison and toward a better future. Yet, no matter how fast he runs, the system's injustices and prejudices reveal themselves in various ways, reminding him that he can't escape his past. This act explores the duality of Reese's struggle, torn between two opposing forces, as he grapples with the ever-present influence of the criminal justice system.

Act Three: "The Release"
In the final act, Reese reaches a crucial realization. He understands that he can never entirely escape his past, nor can he blindly chase his future without addressing the systemic issues that led him to prison in the first place. Reese chooses to be present in his own life, using his experiences to fuel a desire for change. He decides to take action to reform not only himself but also the system that once confined him. The breaking of the hourglass represents the destruction of one system,only to walk into another system thats even bigger.

"Every Second" is a thought-provoking short film that explores the enduring impact of incarceration on an individual's life and the broader implications of a flawed system. It serves as a reminder that true liberation comes from confronting one's past, addressing systemic issues, and striving for a better future right where you are.