In Sing Sing, a group of convicts discovers a glimmer of hope and release where none exists. A quietly powerful film that plucks at the heartstrings of even the toughest of men (that’s me, the toughest of men… obviously), Sing Sing is one of the best movies of the year.
Domingo Coleman plays a convicted (but innocent) felon who helps lead a theater group at the infamous penitentiary. Coleman delivers another Oscar-worthy performance with a compassionate but grisled turn. Divine G is a surprisingly endearing character and Coleman embodies him fully; he feels as real as the incredible cast around him, most of them former convicts who are essentially playing themselves. The cast, and the movie itself, somehow manages to find that perfect balance between rawness and tenderness–a testament to director Greg Kwedar’s technique and end-product.
Also notable is Clarence Maclin, who is impressive in his own right. Playing the most combustible and unpredictable character in the movie—and the one with the biggest arc—he gets as raw as it gets. It’s a role with plenty of juice and Maclin squeezes every drop out of it.
Storywise, Sing Sing might end up being slight for some viewers–despite being about a group of convicts, the story isn’t super heavy if you don’t let it in–but let it in and you’ll discover it to be a profoundly moving, heartwarming, and uplifting tale of both physical and mental perseverance.
Review by Erik Samdahl unless otherwise indicated.