Director: Greg Kwedar
Writers: John H. Richardson, Brent Buell, Clint Bentley
Starring: Colman Domingo, Clarence Maclin, Paul Raci, Sean San José
Rated: R for language throughout.
Synopsis: Divine G (Colman Domingo), imprisoned at Sing Sing for a crime he didn’t commit, finds purpose by acting in a theatre group with other incarcerated men. When a wary outsider joins the group, the men decide to stage their first original comedy, in this stirring true story of resilience, humanity, and the transformative power of art, starring an unforgettable ensemble cast of formerly incarcerated actors
Review: Sing Sing Prison is a maximum-security prison in Ossining, New York that houses 1,500 inmates. It might be the last place you’d expect to find a theatrical troupe. Based on a true story, Sing Sing is the story of a small group of inmates who have banded together to rehearse and perform theater productions within the prison’s walls. It is an ever-evolving company led by Divine G (Colman Domingo), a writer and actor who also provides legal advice for his fellow inmates.
When Clarence Maclin (one of many actors who play themselves in the film) is added to the troupe, his tough, streetwise personality clashes with the group who have tried to move beyond their anger. Even Divine G’s attempts to engage with Maclin are quickly shut down.
What follows is one of the most accurate and beautiful explorations of the transformative power of collaboration. Relationships take on new dynamics as teamwork demands that the troupe learn to trust each other. It’s not quite the same as a sports film. There are similarities, but victory, particularly in this story, isn’t about the final product. It is about the process of creation.
The script is fantastic, the performances are great, nothing feels forced or unrealistic. It’s a bit early to be naming favorites, but the lead performance from Colman Domingo, supporting turn by Clarence Maclin, Greg Kwedar’s direction, and the writing trio of John H. Richardson, Brent Buell, and Clint Bentley are all likely to be among my top five of 2024 in each category.
