Synopsis: Divine G (Colman Domingo), imprisoned at Sing Sing for a crime he didn’t commit, finds purpose by acting in a theatre group alongside other incarcerated men, including wary newcomer (Clarence Maclin), in this stirring true story of resilience, humanity, and the transformative power of art, starring an unforgettable ensemble cast of formerly incarcerated actors.
Based on “The Sing Sing Follies” by John H. Richardson (a 2005 Esquire article) and “Breakin’ the Mummy’s Code” by Brent Buell, the film is directed by Greg Kwedar, from a screenplay he co- wrote with Clint Bentley. The story is by Bentley, Kwedar, Clarence Maclin, and John ‘Divine G’ Whitfield.
Colman Domingo is by far providing the audience with a career best performance. I have seen him in several films, and always thought he was excellent. What he brings to the character through his behavior and actions is so moving, as he does what he can to make the best of his circumstances in the system and tries to prove his innocence. The ensemble cast is truly amazing, and yes, unforgettable.
The prison has a theater arts program for men serving time in prison. As we see the participation by the men, it gives them something they did not think was possible. They have something to look forward to and see results as an unexpected improvement in their lives.
The filmmakers conducted interviews with various participants in the Sing Sing correctional facility’s theater program. Some of them became part of the cast. Divine Eye is performed by Clarence “Divine Eye” Maclin, playing a fictionalized version of himself. When Divine G and Divine Eye have scenes together, they are electric, as well as moving. Paul Raci (Sound of Metal) portrays the group leader of the participants and is excellent as well as a memorable character in the film.
Sean San José is a writer, director, performer and producer. Sean San José and Colman Domingo have collaborated for nearly 30 years in various productions. I am thoroughly impressed with his performance in the film. There is a scene in the film where he is talking to Divine G, describing his life outside and about his grandmother. I found it moving and even more in a subsequent scene when Divine G learns the guards are in the cell next to his – the look on his face says it all.
When I saw the film in March at the SXSW screening, Domingo and other cast members were in attendance with a very informative and entertaining Q & A. The stage was full of cast and crew, leaving all in attendance with a positive festival experience. The film is the 2024 Audience Award Winner in the Festival Favorites category.
Sing Sing is in Austin theaters on Friday, August 9th.
Source: A24, IMDb
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