There are two kinds of prison movies: the kind where an innocent man gets caught up in a web of injustice and must cleverly outmaneuver the system (The Shawshank Redemption, Escape from Alcatraz), and the kind where things are just bleak beyond belief. But then there’s Sing Sing, a film that throws out the usual tropes and delivers something unexpected: a story about hope, art, and the human need to create, even in the most restrictive circumstances.
Starring the ridiculously talented Colman Domingo, Sing Sing is based on the real-life Rehabilitation Through the Arts (RTA) program at New York’s Sing Sing Correctional Facility. If you think “prison theater” sounds like an odd premise for a movie, you’re not alone—but somehow, this film manages to turn it into something deeply moving, surprisingly funny, and completely compelling. Also, let’s be honest: Domingo could read a how-to-use-your-dishwasher handbook out loud and make it riveting, so putting him at the center of this story was already a winning move.
What really makes Sing Sing special is its commitment to authenticity. Many of the actors in the film are formerly incarcerated men, which adds an undeniable weight to every scene. It never feels like Hollywood trying to sanitize or over-dramatize prison life; instead, it captures the small victories, frustrations, and camaraderie of people trying to find purpose within a broken system. You feel the joy of these men performing, not because they’re trying to impress anyone, but because storytelling is a fundamental part of being human.
Now, let’s talk about awards. Because Sing Sing absolutely should have been showered with them. Domingo, who seems to be in a career renaissance (or maybe he’s always been this good and people are finally catching on), delivers a performance that’s equal parts powerful and restrained. He doesn’t go for the showy, “give me my Oscar” monologues; instead, he brings a quiet intensity that lingers long after the credits roll. Did the Academy recognize this? Of course not. Because they were too busy handing out nominations to the usual suspects. (Sing Sing was shamefully snubbed, in case that wasn’t clear.)
If you’re wondering where you can watch it, Sing Sing is currently available for streaming on HBO’s Max.
Ultimately, Sing Sing is a reminder that art has the power to change lives, no matter where you are or what you’ve been through. It’s uplifting without being preachy, emotional without being manipulative, and just really, really good. Plus, if you ever find yourself questioning whether theater programs belong in prisons, this movie will settle the debate for you: they absolutely do.
So, do yourself a favor and watch Sing Sing. Just be warned—you might find yourself unexpectedly emotional over a bunch of guys putting on a play. And if that happens, don’t worry. It just means the movie did its job.
Discover more from itsm3g
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
