In his introduction to the UK premiere of his film Sing Sing director Greg Kwedar told the Edinburgh International Film Festival crowd that one of the great joys of cinema is the emotions it can bring in each other – whether tears or laughter.
Set exclusively inside the Sing Sing Correctional Facility, the story follows a band of incarcerated men taking part in the Rehabilitation Through the Arts programme (RTA), led by John ‘Divine G’ Whitfield – wonderfully portrayed by the always impressive Coleman Domingo. While involved in the theatre activities, his character Whitfield also works tirelessly towards proving his innocence after being held for a crime he did not commit.
Tension begins to surround the prison arts group after Whitfield recruits Clarence ‘Divine Eye’ Maclin, an aggressive individual with no desire for the arts. In prison for his involvement in a robbery, Maclin gradually buys into the programme and becomes an integral member in the group’s new comedy theatre production – threatening another inmate with violence.
Where the film works best is when we see the brotherhood inside Sing Sing. This is enhanced through the involvement of former members of the real life Rehabilitation Through the Arts programme in the cast, most notably Maclin. The exceptions in the leading cast members are Domingo and Paul Raci, who plays the group’s instructor Brent Buell.
While the team often rejoice in each other’s company we also see the harsher aspects of prison life. Domingo lashes out in frustration and built-up fury when the team fall behind schedule during rehearsals while the investigation into his innocence provides more tension. It’s a standout moment that shows the tough conditions inmates face in prison, even when they produce art for the better good.
‘Sing Sing’ was a project that started more than eight years ago and has been a collective effort, with all members of the cast and crew working for the same rate. Director Greg Kwedar, talked about each of the cast owning the movie, while the formerly incarcerated RTA members also have ownership over their own stories.
Brimming with heart and soul while shining a light on the human potential that can happen behind prison walls, this is a film that celebrates old and new friends and how they shape the most wonderful aspects of life. It is a film that can make a real difference to how we view the world and each other and help us appreciate the immense impact art can have on all of us.
‘Sing Sing’ releases in UK cinemas on August 30.
The Edinburgh International Film Festival, at venues around the city, continues until August 21
