⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ 1/2 (out of 5)
Delving into the harsh and stark realities of prison life has provided some of the greatest films throughout history. In contrast, others struggle to connect audiences to this hopelessly isolated world. Sing Sing provides a contrastingly hopeful and vivid atmosphere for the incarcerated lifestyle by showing how the arts can change lives.
Set in the legendary New York’s maximum security penitentiary, this captivating tale based on true events stars Colman Domingo (The Colour Purple) as Divine G. He is doing time for a crime he did not commit and earnestly awaits the hearing that may grant his release. During this time, he assists other prisoners with their legal issues and oversees the Rehabilitation Through the Arts (RTA) group. This program allows prisoners to work through their incarceration through the performing arts. After a series of stellar performances, the group invites a new member to be part of the latest production. Divine Eye (Clarence Maclin) Has hidden talents that challenge the group and especially frustrates Divine G as the newcomer makes his presence known in the group of men. As the time comes for the play to be performed before the prison body, different events and situations cause relationships to be put to the test as it threatens the whole production.
Even if you go into this film unaware of the cast's history, there is a rawness and realness to the actors that cause this project to hold onto your attention from beginning to end. Colman Domingo is perfect for the lead role and carries this production with a natural ease that deserves recognition. Still, he isn’t what makes this whole movie gripping. The compelling aspect of this film is that the majority of the cast are all former inmates who had been through a prison-based theatre team themselves. This is an element that might undermine the quality of the whole film. Still, director Greg Kwedar uses this aspect to deliver a stellar storyline. Each portion of the screenplay shows the harsh world these men live in due to their choices. Yet, the prison atmosphere and former inmates create spellbinding drama that draws viewers into each act.
Sing Sing is a must-see for those looking for an engrossing journey into a side of humanity that few have entered. One that harbours the worst of the human condition, but where hope can be found for those willing to look beyond the prison walls and prisoner jumpers to discover the beauty of the human spirit that is released in the performing arts.
REEL DIALOGUE: How forgiveness releases your soul from prison
Divine G is the rock that keeps the group together throughout the story. Yet, one of the most poignant moments comes when he breaks down and has to ask forgiveness from the group. Even though there are many other redemptive qualities throughout Sing Sing, this one scene brings everything to a head. In scenes like this, stories begin to show how important the healing process is fuelled by forgiveness.
Especially in a prison atmosphere, there would have to be a limit to being vulnerable or willing to ask for forgiveness from others. We may not ever find ourselves in prison, but this film opens the door to the discussion of forgiveness in our lives and why we should also forgive. Resentment only hurts the one who holds onto it. It is a prison of the soul that anyone can be freed from with forgiveness.
The Bible has much to say on this topic. It is a source of forgiveness that is life-changing in this life and into eternity. It is the key to freeing your soul from the prison that holds you captive.
1 John 1:9 - If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just to forgive us our sins and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness. If you want to discuss this film's topics, contact us at Third Space. We would love to chat with you about this and more.
If you want to discuss this film's topics, contact us at Third Space. We would love to chat with you about this and more.
