Production company Hayden5 recently produced this PSA for The Innocence Project, a nonprofit legal organization with a mission to free the innocent and prevent wrongful convictions through criminal justice reform. Titled “Happiest Moments,” the spot just launched via online and social channels and marks the organization’s first-ever PSA.
Directed by Ariel Ellis, the PSA focuses on the experiences of three Innocence Project clients: Rosa Jimenez, freed in 2021 after 17 years in prison; Termaine Hicks, exonerated in 2020 after 16 years in prison; and Huwe Burton, exonerated in 2019 after 20 years in prison. Narrated by actress Dascha Polanco (Netflix’s Orange Is the New Black), the film features photos and footage of Innocence Project clients and their families, presenting a glimpse into the intergenerational and familial impact of wrongful incarceration and the joy that comes from regaining one’s freedom. The underscoring track, “Innocence” by Louis Weeks, is performed by Anesha Birchett.
“The mission of the Innocence Project cannot be overstated, so we jumped at the chance to collaborate with them,” said Sara Beamish, Hayden5 producer. “We’re drawn to these types of organizations because the people they represent remind us of our humanity. We hope this video gives freedom back to the wrongfully incarcerated and helps inspire people to get involved.”
Hayden5 handled creative development, production, and postproduction using a variety of mixed media in underscoring each “Happiest Moments” story. With vendors and talent across the country, as well as stakeholder teams in NYC, Detroit, and Chicago, Hayden5 relied on its proprietary remote workflows to keep the project on track and stakeholders informed and involved.
Alicia Maule, digital engagement director at the Innocence Project, said “This anthem embodies the core pillars of our work–to free the innocent and ensure that no one else misses the happiest moments of their lives from wrongful conviction. Huwe Burton, Rosa Jimenez, and Termaine Hicks represent the perseverance and resilience in all of our clients and we are honored to be able to share their stories.”
