A peek behind bars

Popular local TV drama Santa Monika bursts onto cinema screens from today, allowing us a peek behind the bars of a women’s correctional facility. The popular show, which came to a natural close after three years in production and 68 episodes, focused on similar material and producers Image 2000 have been keen to give fans more of what they relished most: nail-biting action and plenty of thrills.

The story, written by Fredrick Zammit, follows some of the shows best-known characters but also introduces new ones. New storylines have been created for the enjoyment of long-time fans of the show as well as those who have never seen it.

The story has a whodunit feel to it. Filmed at the real-life, disused prison in Kordin, the screenplay introduces us to newly incarcerated inmate Rebekkah (played by Sandra Davis) who has been put away by prison director George Said (Ray Attard). Things quickly get puzzling as Mr Said instructs that none of the inmates should ever discover Rebekkah’s true identity – but of course things don’t end there.

This jam-packed thrilled was directed by Fabian Mizzi and the cast includes the talents of Mark Mifsud, Simone Zammit, Greta Falzon Aloisio, Yvonne Scicluna, Dulcima Aquilina, Vanessa Cassar, Louise Cassar, Doris Bonello, Marvic Cordina, Vivienne Caruana, Melanie Micallef Carr and Ronnie Galea. The original score was composed by Philip Vella.

The film is being distributed by KRS.