Stephen Curry always leaves us speechless on the court, and now, alongside his wife Ayesha, he’s bringing that same energy behind the camera. Their new documentary Sentenced digs deep into the struggles of diverse adults and kids who never learned to read. But it’s not just about literacy—it’s about breaking the cycle of generational poverty and giving people a real chance at a better future. Produced by Curry’s Unanimous Media for Peacock, with Erick Peyton as an executive producer, Sentenced is now streaming, ready to inspire and hit you right in the feels.

Described as “an immersive and vulnerable exploration of the epidemic of childhood illiteracy through a series of braided character-driven stories,” each part of the documentary is filmed from the perspective of someone who never learned to read. This raw and emotional journey highlights the life-changing power of literacy and how it can open doors to new possibilities.

The documentary Sentenced takes serious inspiration from Frederick Douglass, the American orator who broke free from slavery and knew firsthand how literacy could be a game-changer. Douglass’s belief that learning to read was his ticket to freedom and empowerment is at the core of the film. His famous line, “Once you learn to read, you will be forever free,” really hits home, resonating throughout Sentenced.

The documentary isn’t just about the struggles of illiteracy—it dives deep into the emotional and generational impact of not being able to read. Just like Douglass believed, education is the key to breaking free from all kinds of oppression—whether it’s poverty, inequality, or the invisible chains holding people back. Sentenced brings that truth to life, showing how illiteracy can feel like a form of imprisonment, while literacy is the pathway to real freedom and change. It carries on Douglass’s legacy, reminding us that the fight for education is a fight for freedom, hope, and a brighter future.

Stephen Curry Takes the Helm as Narrator for Sentenced

This project marks Steph Curry’s debut as a narrator and is super close to both him and Ayesha’s hearts. Their foundation has been all about boosting childhood literacy, aiming to help Oakland elementary kids become solid readers by third grade. Partnering with the Children’s Literacy Project and Unanimous Media to screen Sentenced in Oakland shows they’re all in when it comes to pushing literacy and backing local education.

“Nothing is more foundational, or more important to a child’s success in life than the ability to learn and love to read,” Stephen and Ayesha Curry said in a statement. “When that is missing, you take away the opportunity for an individual to meet their full potential, which is what is displayed in Sentenced. We’re grateful for the group of filmmakers and activists involved in this film who share a common goal of promoting literacy and changing these outcomes and inequities that exist.”

For Stephen and Ayesha Curry, this isn’t just another film—it’s a personal mission that extends their Eat. Learn. Play. Foundation’s fight against literacy gaps. Sentenced goes beyond raising awareness; it’s a serious call to action, showing how powerful literacy can be and the real difference it makes in kids’ and families’ lives. The documentary is set to shine a spotlight on these issues, pushing for real change and rallying support for literacy in communities. What are your thoughts on this?