FILM REVIEW Prison drama is a riveting tale of redemption and hope
Colman Domingo, foreground, has been shortlisted for an Oscar for his role as Divine G in
DIRECTED by Greg Kwedar, tells the incredible true story of a group of incarcerated men who find purpose and passion in a theatre programme.
Seeing this Rehabilitation Through Arts (RTA) programme as an escape from reality, the inmates of Sing Sing prison in the state of New York stage a play in an effort to bring joy to their lives. What is most interesting about this powerful film is that the cast largely consists of men who have previously been incarcerated, playing versions of themselves. This unique element adds an extra layer of authenticity that helps to create a truly inspiring and heart-warming film.
One of the few known actors in the cast is Colman Domingo, who has been shortlisted for an Oscar for his role as Divine G. He delivers a powerhouse performance as an inmate who is wrongfully convicted of murder and whose time behind bars is spent writing plays and acting in the RTA. Hoping to prove his innocence, a silent desperation burns within as he struggles to cope with his reality.
When newcomer Clarence ‘Divine Eye’ Maclin (playing himself) shares his desire to act on the stage, an unlikely friendship forms between the two men. This relationship is the beating heart of the film as emotional barriers are broken down and stereotypes on what it is to be man are overcome.
There are not enough superlatives to describe Domingo’s performance. His every second of screentime is a masterclass in acting and he is undoubtedly deserving of an Oscar nomination for best actor. And although Domingo is indeed masterful in his role, Clarence Maclin is surprisingly compelling opposite him. Not only that, but Maclin shares a credit as screenwriter alongside the real life Divine G.
Also nominated for Best Adapted Screenplay, the film makes history with Maclin being the first formerly-incarcerated person to be nominated for an Academy Award.
Greg Kwedar’s direction is brilliantly executed. The juxtaposition between the mundane dreariness of the prison corridors and the warm energy of the theatre space transports audiences into their world on screen, at times soul crushing and other times uplifting.
Not since has the harrowing reality of life behind bars been so effectively realised. Collaborating with cinematographer Pat Scola, Kwedar relies on vintage lenses and natural light to give the film a raw and gritty aesthetic. This authentic approach helps to capture the stark reality of prison life.
While may not be a typical prison drama – there are no daring escape plans, no brutal fights or any expected clichés – it is a quietly-inspiring human story. As the credits began to roll on screen, I found myself stunned in my seat, processing the profound experience. Deeply moving and absolutely deserving of its numerous award nominations, is one to remember.
