Rating 8/10
The Rehabilitation Through the Arts (RTA) program helps inmates build life skills and transform their lives through creative discipline. Inmates participate in activities like acting, writing, and staging plays to regain their sense of self and improve their chances of reintegration into society. This initiative, started in 1996 by Katherine Vockins, is effective at reducing recidivism rates compared to the national average.
Sing Sing inspires viewers to learn more about the transformative power of arts in prison. The movie centers on John Whitfield, aka “Divine G,” embodied by Colman Domingo. The aspiring playwright and actor finds redemption and purpose through the RTA effort while serving time at the infamous New York prison for a crime he didn’t commit. Alongside a group of inmates, he takes on the challenge of putting on an original production.
It’s a collaborative process that encourages active participation. Actor Paul Raci (Sound of Metal) is Brent Buell, the director of their latest project. Buell invites input. The inmates suggest such disparate elements as Hamlet, Blazing Saddles, Gladiator, Back to the Future, and Freddy Krueger. The result is a hilarious amalgamation called Breakin’ The Mummy’s Code. The account explores how artistic expression impacts the lives of these men.
The most compelling aspect is its cast. Colman Domingo (Euphoria, Fear the Walking Dead) delivers an insightful performance, conveying the vulnerability of a defeated man but with the confidence of one who knows his self-worth. Until the conclusion credits, I was unaware that the ensemble cast comprised formerly incarcerated actors who lived through the program. They channel their firsthand experiences into an achievement that stands alongside Domingo’s.
Clarence Maclin’s debut portraying himself as “Divine Eye” is particularly memorable. His magnetism and ease with the camera create a captivating conflict with Divine G as both characters vie for the role of Hamlet. Their friendship/rivalry is intense and ultimately culminates in a profound ending scene.
Sing Sing touches upon wrongful imprisonment, hope, forgiveness, and lasting bonds. It evokes strong emotions, similar to The Shawshank Redemption, but forges a unique path by focusing on the benefits of the RTA endeavor. Director Greg Kwedar, who co-wrote the screenplay with Clint Bentley, captures the authenticity of the inmates’ experiences by showcasing the life-changing impact of art in a harsh environment. By featuring genuine participants, Sing Sing effectively avoids saccharine clichés and offers a heartfelt celebration of humanity.
Sing Sing is currently in limited release and will expand wide on August 2.
07-15-24