Colman Domingo shines in moving prison drama at Sing Sing
- The film is inspired by a 2005 Esquire article about the Rehabilitation Through the Arts program at Sing Sing prison.
- Colman Domingo leads a cast largely made up of former inmates, showcasing the emotional depth of their stories.
- The film emphasizes the transformative power of theatre and the humanity of its characters, diverging from conventional prison movie tropes.
Colman Domingo stars in a poignant prison drama inspired by a 2005 Esquire article about the Rehabilitation Through the Arts (RTA) program at Sing Sing prison. The film focuses on the transformative power of theatre, showcasing the friendship between Divine G, a seasoned inmate, and newcomer Clarence Maclin, who plays himself. The narrative diverges from typical prison film tropes, emphasizing the emotional depth and humanity of the characters rather than violence and aggression. Directed by Greg Kwedar, the film features a cast primarily composed of former inmates, adding authenticity to the storytelling. The score, composed by Bryce Dessner, is characterized by its gentle and melodic nature, contrasting with the expected aggressive musical styles often associated with prison narratives. The cinematography by Pat Scola captures the essence of the prison environment, focusing on the emotional landscape of the characters rather than the physical confines of the prison. The film's approach to storytelling is reminiscent of the documentary "The Work," which explores group therapy in Folsom prison, highlighting the softer aspects of incarcerated individuals. The unexpected death of a character introduces a moment of discord in the otherwise harmonious narrative, further emphasizing the film's emotional weight. Overall, the film is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the potential for redemption through art, making it a unique entry in the genre of prison dramas.