Film Review: A Heartfelt Journey Through Rehabilitation and Theatre

A new film inspired by the Rehabilitation Through the Arts project captures the charm and optimism of teaching theatre skills to US prisoners. Based on a 2005 Esquire article, the movie showcases a fantasy-comedy musical performed by inmates at Sing Sing maximum security facility in New York. The film invites audiences to embrace its title as joyful imperatives, featuring genuine former inmates in rehearsal scenes alongside poignant private conversations. Colman Domingo delivers a captivating performance as John “Divine G” Whitfield, a visionary behind the Rehabilitation Through the Arts programme. His portrayal is marked by wit and elegance, contrasting sharply with the more grounded performances of his fellow cast members, who are primarily former prisoners. The real Divine G makes a cameo, while Clarence “Divine Eye” Maclin, a tough inmate transformed by Shakespeare, plays himself, adding authenticity to the narrative. Despite the film's admirable intentions, Domingo's larger-than-life characterization raises questions about its alignment with the other actors. His performance, reminiscent of a seasoned Broadway star, risks overshadowing the more subdued portrayals of his co-stars. This dynamic creates an engaging spectacle but also highlights a dissonance within the ensemble, particularly as Maclin emerges as a key character. Ultimately, the film presents a compelling exploration of creativity and redemption within the prison system, though it grapples with the balance between individual artistry and collective authenticity. The emotional stakes are heightened by Whitfield's personal struggle with the possibility of parole, adding depth to this heartfelt cinematic journey.