User reviews

Rating: 8.7 Overall, a powerful movie that shows how inmates are still humans despite their mistakes as the movie uses alumni from Sing Sing's RTA program to deliver this strong message on redemption, all lead by a great performance from Colman Domingo.

Very Good Direction (The direction on a macroscale is very good as they really set the scene and the weight the setting has on the characters, especially how they are secluded from the free world; the direction on a microscale is great as you see all the performances elevated in the interpersonal scenes since this is where you see the trauma these characters are facing as they fight for their humanity; the storytelling is good as he lets the actors play and be storytellers (using their personal experiences to shape their characters); he builds tension very well as the whole movie is about building an emotional connection with these characters, and you are invested in what happens with their fight for their freedom), Very Good Acting (Great from Colman Domingo (A real commanding performance as he is the leader of the cast and brings out the best in everyone, showing a wide range of emotions to show how the characters are still human beings despite their mistakes), Good from the rest of the cast (The entire cast gives very grounded, multidimensional performances as they use their personal experiences in Sing Sing and RTA to create their characters and convey their messages/struggles)), Very Good Story (The concept is very unique as it is a semi-autobiographical take on finding a safe place in a traumatic environment, and the movie shows how the characters continue to fight for their freedom and humanity; the plot structure is laid out very well; flow between sequences is good; character writing is great as you care for these characters and their struggle, and by the end, you root for them to grow and earn their freedom), Very Good Screenplay (The dialogue is good for the most part (even though it is a bit overt at times) and emulates how people in a maximum security penitentiary would talk, and the dialogue is filled with a lot of emotion at times that invokes feelings out of the audience; the humor is used well to help lighten the mood and show multiple dimensions of the characters; the symbolism is heavily prevalent as the movie is a huge metaphor about finding humanity in a place that tries to take it from you, and it deals a lot with how humans may be flawed people, but there is still good in those who try to redeem themselves for the better; the foreshadowing is decently prevalent), Good Score (Helps with establishing the mood), Good to Very Good Cinematography (Filled with a lot of beautiful shots and shows the large distance between the penitentiary and the free world), Good Editing (Used well in the context of the movie), , , Very Good Production Design (They send a strong message by filming the movie at Sing Sing (and this most likely helps the cast as they convey the trauma they felt from being there)), Pacing is the right pace, Climax is very emotional as it is a key point in many of the characters' lives as they fight for their freedom as well as their peace, Tone is very emotional as the semi-biographical feel paints this drama as very grounded (but still has other flavors to holistically portray the characters), It is very powerful that they had the cast filled with alumni from the program as it made the performances feel very realistic; saw the US premiere at SXSW.

Caught this film last night at a blind preview at our local theater complex. Probably wouldn't have opted to see it if I'd have known what it was but I'm grateful I did. Moving, honest portrayals by some of the participants in the program it depicts (particularly Clarence Maclin and Sean Johnson) and the work of Colman Domingo are it's strengths. The cinematography and direction add to the sincerity of the performances by not overwhelming them and taking an approach that feels like the viewer is witnessing the conversations and events instead of consuming them. Thought provoking. Understated. Sincere. Not flawless but really well done.

This was a very competently and professionally made film that is somewhat marred by a lack of major plot elements. The film itself is mostly solid on all technical fronts. The dialogue is real and raw, the arc and pacing is just right, and the acting is extremely solid. However, in none of these facets does the film truly excel. Unfortunately, it seems that way for the entire film. There is a lot of good things happening: layered conversations and meaning, nice musical choices, stakes understood. However, nothing really exemplary.

Perhaps this film's greatest sin is its dedication to the genre of character driven drama. I can truly appreciate a slow burn, but there are long stretches of the film in which nothing happens and, at some level, have no staked outcome on the story. Perhaps this is a give an take -- the ambiance of the film works great, combined with the shaky-cam style of photography gives a real and raw energy. The cost is that a central theme, or plot if there is one, is muddied.

In the end, this is a good film that I'm sure will be a major hit with some people. It is surely worth a watch, but for me it ends a little bit boring.

Best movie I have seen in some time. Cast was extraordinary. Colman Domingo is incredible. The filmography is very unique and really sets the tone. The plot was well crafted and paced. I was very moved by this movie. Definitely worth watching on the big screen. Movie is based on a true story about the theater program Reformed Through Art at Sing Sing. Many characters are played by former members of the program. The emotional range of the characters in this movie is extremely compelling. I was moved to tears several times throughout this movie. This movie is touching and heartwarming-it explores hope and grief and redemption. Just profoundly lovely.

This movie had me crying, smiling, laughing, and feeling really good. I feel like this is a film for humanity. People are just people at the end of the day. I love the hope that this movie had me feeling. I'm not sure that I'd have picked this one to see in theaters, but was just aghast at how beautiful the film is. I know nothing of awards and when those decisions are made. I'd be absolutely shocked if this film does not the board. The characters come off as genuine and are utterly love able. I was very surprised to learn more about the cast at the end of the film and it had me crying all the more. Happy tears. I enjoyed that the characters were raw in their performances and I just cannot say it enough. This movie is big and feels so important. Hope feels nice.

"We're here to become human again." Rehabilitation Through the Arts at Sing Sing Correctional Facility

Occasionally a movie comes on the scene, and not usually in the summer, so naturalistic and unadorned, so brimming with humanity and the restorative nature of the arts, that it cries out, "Don't forget me at Oscar time!" Such is Sing Sing, set in 2005, when John H, Richardson's Esquire article The Sing Sing Follies was published.

Notorious as the prison was, its theater activity, like the therapy program at Folsom prison, provided a ragtag group the chance to mount theater productions aimed at elevating their spirits and their very souls. The sterling docudrama, headed by Oscar-winning Colman Domingo as founder Divine G, and real-life Clarence "Divine Eye" Macklin as Divine Eye, is so authentic and artful, that nothing this year can quite compare. Most of the cast either are alumni or current residents of the prison, where "Kill or be Killed" was a disturbing mantra, changing now as: "To put on nice clothes and dance around. To enjoy the things that are not in our reality."

The troupe creates a bizarre production, Breakin' the Mummy's Cord, that includes among others Shakespeare, time travel, and Freddy Kreuger. The transformative element is best exemplified by Divine Eye, who discovers an artistic side that far eclipses any success he may have had as a covert art dealer.

Never during the film does even the muted violence of many other top-rated tales like Shawshank or Alcatraz appear, assuring the elevation of spirit that accompanies the arts. "Sing Sing" is itself a work of art crying out to be considered the best movie of the year so far and one of the finest prison movies ever offered on the screen.

"I don't write comedies. I write satires," Divine G.

An excellent film all around. Strikes the right tone and pacing between the gritty reality and the human potential for good. Very little to improve in this film. The script, film making craft, and acting all support the story very well. The only reason I don't rate it a 10 is that I have no direct experience with prisons and can't confirm its accuracy about life there. Everything that is visible in the film is handled well.

Also an important film in that it shows the consequences of mediocre parole boards and injustices in sentencing. See this if you have an interest in prisons, the justice system, rehabilitation, or theater.

Saw this movie as one of those Mystery movies where you do not know what you are seeing until you get there. I enjoyed this movie even tho this wouldn't of been a movie I would of watched in the theater. I had a couple tear jerking moments and realizing half the cast was the actual prison theater crew is impressive. I was almost going to walk out when I found out it was Sing Sing but the movie Grabbing my attention and kept me in my seat till the end. Again the the cast was most of the prisoners that was part of the theater group and they actually did a really good job considering they only exp they had was in Prison.

When everything gets taken away from one's life, it must be nearly impossible to find something that provides a reason to carry on. So it is for the incarcerated, individuals faced with an uncertain future of indeterminate duration. And, under conditions as difficult as these, realistically speaking, one can't help but wonder whether rehabilitation will actually pan out as a viable option. But, for some, there's hope through a seemingly unlikely source - the arts, as chronicled in this fact-based drama about the participants in the inmate theater program at New York's Sing Sing maximum security prison. With a cast featuring both professional actors and current and former members of this gifted incarcerated troupe, viewers witness the highs and lows of these men as they strive to bring meaning - and hope - to their time behind bars. Director Greg Kwedar's second feature provides an up-close look at the lives of these aspiring actors, both in terms of their on-stage pursuits and their everyday lives under conditions most of us probably can't even begin to imagine. While the picture's narrative is admittedly a little thin and meandering at times, that's more than made up for in the film's superb performances, led by Colman Domingo, Clarence Maclin, Paul Raci and Sean San Jose, who, like virtually everyone else in this fine ensemble, bring an unmatched depth to their characters and interpersonal relationships, easily among the best work in these areas that I've seen in quite some time. In doing so, this offering also takes audiences on a rollercoaster ride of emotions, from uplifting joys to heartfelt disappointments, revealing the tremendous strength of character driving these individuals. That's particularly poignant knowing that many of those in this production can relate to their circumstances from firsthand experience, thereby infusing this release with a level of unabridged authenticity seldom seen on the big screen. For its efforts, "Sing Sing" stands a good chance of being one of 2024's awards season contenders, especially in the acting categories, showing us what's possible when we allow our passions to surface for their own sake, especially when we have nothing to lose by doing so, a genuine source of inspiration from whom we might least likely expect it.

While this new independent film distributed by A24 is set inside a prison in New York, it is less of a "prison movie" in the conventional sense and more of an emotionally impactful and inspiring drama about how art--particularly theater--can rehabilitate people in need of rehabilitation. The film's depiction of this issue is genuine and heartfelt, and forms the cornerstone to a generally engaging story. Colman Domingo plays the protagonist, who is incarcerated but helps lead the prison theatre group.

The film takes a bit of time to truly get going, but it still remains gripping and engaging. Domingo's performance is great, showing understated emotion in a way that makes a strong impact on the viewer, while also radiating a deep sense of compassion. The supporting actors are all excellent as well, and many of the supporting cast members apparently have been formerly incarcerated. The incorporation of the theatre program into the narrative creates comic relief, but also pathos and powerful bonding between the inmates and the program director. "Sing Sing" isn't perfect, as the character development of the supporting characters could have been improved, but its beating heart and thoughtful, humane tone is genuinely moving and memorable. Gladly recommended. 8/10.

I attended a secret movie screening at Cinemark and left feeling quite satisfied. *Sing Sing* locks us into a world where inmates use theater as a means of rehabilitation. While behind bars, these men dive deep into emotions, navigating the complexities of code-switching and vulnerability in a place that's all about survival.

The film cleverly showcases the mental and emotional journeys of these prisoners, who truly embody their roles. Although the pacing can feel a bit slow and occasionally off-kilter, it makes sense since most of the actors in the film are actual inmates performing their own stories. The authenticity is palpable, lending the film a raw and genuine feel.

Our lead actor, not the actual inmate himself, adds a layer of professionalism that complements the cast beautifully. This film, based on true events, deserves a solid 7.5 out of 10. If you're a fan of real stories with depth and emotion, this will resonate with you. It may seem unconventional to watch grown men act while incarcerated, but the nods to Shakespeare and the powerful performances give it a unique edge.

If you're a theater enthusiast, you'll appreciate the way they piece it all together-it's like *High School Musical* meets the penitentiary maybe not the best comparison because there isn't any singing but I hope you get the gist.

I was incredibly moved by this film. I went into it was no expectations other than to be blown away by Coleman Domingo, who always delivers a strong performance in every film he's in. I was most taken by the performance by his costar Clarence Maclin, Who brought such tenderness and compassion to his character and the other characters. It's really great to know that some of the other actors in the film are also formerly incarcerated men in the RTA program, and that everyone involved with the production has some equity with the film. I think with real life stories like this that is the way to produce a film in the most authentic and rewarding way possible.

This modest, affecting film portrays the work of a convict in Sing Sing prison in creating a theater program in which the prisoners take the stage and take on roles ranging from Shakespeare to modern drama or comedy. It's based on true events and many of the actual prisoners who participated in this endeavor play themselves.

Colman Domingo is his usual exemplary, soulful presence as the convict who makes the theater program a possibility and helps introduce many of his fellow inmates to the world of acting. Clarence Maclin matches Domingo with an absolutely granite performance as one such inmate who goes from menacing prison bully to empathetic confidant in the film's storyline. The actual "Divine G" whose story the film is based on, makes a brief appearance as well.

Prison films are known for usually being a lot grittier and less nuanced than this. But this story is not without some of the same heartbreak and endurance that comes with a prison story. In the end, it's quite an inspiring tale and cause for optimism amid bleak surroundings. Highly recommended for those who enjoy excellent acting and an unconventional but uplifting slice of life.

'Sing Sing' suffers from what you might call "great acting, but bad movie" syndrome.

There are two main characters. Right now, Gold Derby has Colman Domingo as #1 in the odds for Best Actor, and Clarence Maclin at #2 for Best Supporting Actor. Agreed: they were both great.

I'd compare it to 'Oppenheimer' in that way. Just this past March, it won both Best Actor for Cillian Murphy and Best Supporting Actor for Downey. No complaints from me. The acting in 'Oppenheimer' was great. But I didn't think it wasn't actually a great film.

Same thing here. Any time that an actor or actress cries real tears on camera, that's excellent acting, you know? And both Domingo and Maclin did. But even though Gold Derby currently has it at #1 for Best Picture, I had a lot of problems with the screenwriting and directorial choices of the actual film.

Here's an example. This isn't a spoiler, because it's literally the opening moments! But you know what the plot is about, right? It's about an acting program at the New York prison. The film starts with a scene of the actors on stage, performing a scene as characters of nobility.

Now, I get the screenwriter's and director's intentions there. "We want the viewer to perceive these characters as they see themselves, strutting about regally, rather than locked up in chains. To show that these men still have dignity, even behind bars." Okay, I get the point.

But personally, I though the film should have begun literally the exact opposite way. Because they *are* behind bars. As the expression goes: you never get a second chance to make a first impression. And our first impression of these characters should be as they... you know... actually are?

You start off by seeing Harry Potter living under the cupboard in his evil uncle's basement, you start off by seeing Luke Skywalker as a simple farm boy on the planet Tatooine, you start off by seeing Peter Parker as a nerdy high school student in NYC who can't get a date. Then they become a wizard, then they become a Jedi, then they get bitten by a radioactive spider. It doesn't work if they start off that way in the viewer's mind.

I could give plenty more examples beyond the opening scene, which I won't because I don't want to spoil anything.

But here's what you should watch instead. Actually, what you should listen to instead: the 2002 episode of 'This American Life' titled "Act V." It's essentially the same plot as 'Sing Sing,' following a group of inmates in a theater program.

Everything about it was better than the film. Everything. A few examples, none of them spoilers:

= The fact that the inmates are performing an actual drama, Shakespeare's 'Hamlet,' gives the story so much more resonance and weight. 'Sing Sing' strikes a weird tone: it's a drama, but the play the inmates are staging is a comedy. So the film is a drama about the making of a comedy. Some of my favorite films have successfully struck the "half comedy / half drama" balance, from 'CODA' to 'La La Land' to 'Crimes and Misdemeanors.' But I don't know, this one just didn't land for me.

• The real-life acting coach and play's director is a woman. In 'Sing Sing,' the fictional equivalent role is a male character. Which didn't work for me nearly as well. Because to me, the whole message in the 'This American Life' episode is that in this all-male violent and criminal environment, from the inmates to the guards to the warden, with stabbings and rape and all that, it's literally the only woman in their lives who helps these gangsters bring out their actual emotions and confront their vulnerabilities. It's just much harder for me to envision a male doing that.

• The episode actually goes into some of the inmates' crimes. The movie doesn't. I get that the director Greg Kwedar wants us to see these inmates as actual people, not just as the felony they committed decades back. "They were different people back then, everybody deserves a second chance," all that jazz. Sure, but... what crimes did they actually do? To not tell us is like having a massive itch that you can't scratch. It's kind of maddening.

Sing Sing is an emotional testament to the healing power of art told with a commitment to authenticity that makes it even more powerful. It follows a familiar narrative that ticks off a fair few of the tropes of prison movies but it's all done in such a vulnerable and earnest fashion so even the most obvious beats power through on their emotional heft alone. It's a thoroughly investing drama that shines a light on a wonderful programme.

Surrounding Colman Domingo with people playing themselves could have led to an awkward dissonance but that's completely avoided here as the whole group bounce off each other in a genuine way. Domingo gives an incredible lead performance that's emotionally raw and rife with heartbreaking and heartwarming moments. It's lovely to see him enjoying the performances within the performance and devastating when bad news shatters his worldview.

Clarence Maclin gives the best performance with a clear arc that he moves through so gracefully as he becomes increasingly comfortable being emotionally vulnerable around the others. The heart of this is watching him and Colman Domingo bond over the course of the film with each of them having their highs and lows, taking turns helping the other one out which all culminates in a beautiful ending.

Greg Kwedar's direction puts the performances front and centre whilst still giving the film plenty of moments for its beautiful visuals to shine. Patrick Scola's cinematography utilises a lot of close ups which allow you to see every nuance of the performances, giving everyone their time in the spotlight. End credits have rarely been as impactful because seeing so many people credited as themselves just adds greater emotional weight to what just happened.

My wife and I saw Sing Sing (2023) in theaters last night. The storyline follows a group of prisoners who receive approval to put on plays. Divine G. Is their star playwright and performer, who is also trying to prove his innocence and gain his freedom. As they recruit new performers for their upcoming play, Divine is part of the team that interviews new applicants. He meets a man who may need the play program more than he realizes to discover his true self and find a glimpse of happiness during the hardships of prison life. As Divine works with him, he may also learn something profound about himself.

Directed by Greg Kwedar (Transpecos), the film stars Colman Domingo (Lincoln), Clarence Maclin, Sean San José (The Other Barrio), Paul Raci (Sound of Metal), and Sean Dino Johnson.

This movie is brilliant in just about every way. The settings, cinematography, and depiction of the prison lifestyle, along with the challenges and inner demons faced by the characters, couldn't have been better. The casting is magical, with Colman Domingo delivering a riveting performance, but the supporting cast is equally magnificent, offering authentic and powerful portrayals. The storyline is full of magical and poignant twists and turns, leading to a breathtaking resolution. The big reveal at the end almost brought me to tears (my wife did cry).

In conclusion, Sing Sing is a magical character piece that is masterfully crafted and put together. I would score this a 10/10 and strongly recommend it.

Wait, did Colman Domingo learned the craft in jail?

I don't know, but there were some clips in the end credits that would suggest that.

Anyway, I did like the story that the film told. I liked its message on rehabilitation. I've herd of at least one program like this that actor Charles S. Dutton came out of as an actor. I thought it added something using real ex-cons to tell the story. Not much acting there I guess as they talk about prison, they know.

I also liked how the film was filmed. Those scenes where the characters were in their jail cell made me feel claustrophobic.

I thought the story was told perfectly and it was a very good insight as to how the program worked. I feel inlighten for sitting through it.

And interesting and different kind of prison drama. Also strucural it was something non-conventional.

A great performance driven film with a cast that mostly consists of non-professional actors.

Lead is the cast by Colman Domingo who once again gives a tremendous performance that will surely bring him back to the Oscar game. Wonderfully nuanced performance, and with his face he can say so much more than with his voice (and his voice does wonders too. ) Paul Raci is another rare professional actor of the cast and also does a fine job. I really liked the performance of Clarence Maclin who will probably go places this season as well.

The screenplay was great the atmosphere absolutely fitting the environment. Good film and very though provoking.

There's something inspiring and deeply moving about this quite remarkable film, based on real events, about a group of prisoners at Sing Sing jail in New York State who take part of a theatre project. The fact that a large proportion of the cast are in fact actually inmates or ex inmates adds to a sense of intimacy and involvement as we them each struggle with their problems frustrations and dilemmas. It's revealing and often poignant, and the performances are quite outstanding, however, the narrative is slow and quite understated, and the semi-documentary style might not be that appealing to some, but it is affecting and stays in the mind.

Good one and simple. Beautiful movie, its of course not oscar worthy but its a good time with a little cliche here and there but overall is good.

Colman and his real life friend are great in here. Its of course not oscar worthy performances but they are good performances.

The script is also solid, of course is not oscar worthy but its a very good one, the overall vibe of the movie is depressing and nostalgic.

Overall the movie is a good time and has amazing performances but its not top 5 of the year because this year has been great my guys, its an excellent movie to Watch alone, support this kind of movies guys ok.

This 2024 film directed by Greg Kwedar inspired by Sing Sing Correctional Facility existing program: Rehabilitation Through the Arts (RTA) and past incarcerated memories of Clarence 'Divine Eye' Maclin. RTA's theatre arts initiative was founded by Katherine Vockins in the mid 1990s working underneath its educational programming.

This film set at Sing Sing Correctional Facility which is a maximum security prison close by by New York City (originally founded as Ossining Correctional Facility in early 1800s). This film though doesn't explore it's institutional history or the founding of RTA was rather it takes a creative effort in portraying contemporary prison life.

It's cemented firstly by the dynamic acting of Colman Domingo, a openly gay African American. His portfolio is extremely impressive with Pulitzer Prize along with acting in a Steven Spielberg production. Sean San Jose also lends his great acting talent to this film's ensemble.

Domingo portrayal of main character, "John 'Divine G' Whitfield" inspired by former inmate's life experiences The rest of cast is comprised of formerly incarcerated men really give a strong platform for Domingo's acting. This film is already garnishing many film nominees and awards for the acting tropes.

It's fictional narrative strives to give not only insight in how arts and educational programming at correctional facilities but it demonstrates how institutional trauma and systemic racism can be dealt with.

Although these themes are probably considered controversial is maybe why the film ticket sales are not significant. This film should be seen and experienced that it can build empathy for those incarcerated.

Especially in cases where inmates have been wrongly accused for crimes not done. One Sing Sing Correctional Facility case, Jon-Adrian Velazquez (plays himself in this film) who had served a 25 years at Sing Sing Correctional Facility after wrongfully convicted for murder. His case had been under much investigation until a release was granted in 2021.

Directed by Greg Kwedar, the movie follows Divine G (Colman Domingo), who is imprisoned at Sing Sing for a crime he didn't commit. He finds purpose by acting in a theatre group alongside other incarcerated men, including a wary newcomer. This is a stirring true story of resilience, humanity, and the transformative power of art.

It's funny how independent studio films like this one often go unnoticed, despite being incredibly moving. It's a shame that they don't always receive the attention they deserve or get a wide release. However, these hidden gems eventually find their audience through streaming platforms. Honestly, though, it's been a while since I had this sheer amount of mixed emotions after I finished a movie that I had no idea what it was all about, heck I didn't even bother to read the synopsis. The many rave reviews are enough to convince me to see this and they're not lying.

I wouldn't say Sing Sing is unlike any movie that I have seen, but it sure shows a different side of life behind bars that a lot of prison movies never before, or at least that I know of. Sing Sing is a perfect display of the power of art; in this case, it is rehabilitation for the incarcerated men. They use it, as Sean Johnson's character said in an emotional scene is to become human again, because society often deems inmates as the worst side of humanity imaginable. If you haven't known this, the movie is based on the actual Rehabilitation Through Art (RTA) theatre program in Sing Sing prison, and the men who were in there actually cast in the movie. So when it comes to the performance, you can expect some great acting especially with this year's best actor nominee Colman Domingo in the lead role.

We saw this at a Regal Mystery Movie Monday. We left 45 min into it. We tried to stick it out but it was boring. By 45 min into it, there was still no discernable direction for the movie. I was bummed because I really like Colman Domingo as an actor. There was no action, no conflict... maybe we were just not the audience it was meant for. People who were or are incarcerated might like it as it focuses on people in prison. It definitely wasn't for us. Colman Domingo delivered a great performance as he always does. Maybe after we left it got better but it wasn't worth waiting around to see if it did.

Sing Sing is a 2024 prison drama biopic starring Colman Domingo as a prisoner for a crime he didn't take part in, and for his life sentence decides to make a theatre programme for the prisoners that goes on for years until a man agreeing to apply changes the usual dynamic.

While impressively acted by a very talented actor, Mr Domingo does not fit very well with his cast that mostly consists of the actual theatre group (which I respect). Why is this the case? Well, he completely overshadows his entire cast and doesn't give any of them an opportunity to shine, quite similar to his character in the film, and when he's not there you are left with a group of unlikable prisoners that you don't care about.

And speaking of this, the film heavily lacks a background to most of the prisoners which is something that is completely necessary for a biopic. But due to the film's short runtime we are left with uncompleted work and boring cast I cannot resonate with, which pretty much destroys the biopic in general. However I will give some thumbs up to the prisoners in real life and how the film took it's time to respect them in the end, which is nice and also the gripping realism of the film is something I don't see too much in prison films so this was a good addition.

Overall, while the prison narrative and the good message of never giving up is certainly powerful, Sing Sing is a lackluster biopic that doesn't do much to keep afloat as it's repetitive boring-some dialogue and scenes makes you wonder why they didn't make it longer.

Grade: C+

Next review: Speak No Evil (2024)

Frankly, a good movie might be slow-moving and there is not much going on for most people to like however to set in a prison what do you expect.

Divine G has been imprisoned for a crime he did not commit and spends his time writing and helping to direct plays usually performing Shakespeare or anything really. A new crew member who though liking plays has a hard time adapting to actually being in a play and its procedures however it also extends to his attitude towards his life. We also are introduced to the side characters and their thoughts towards their prison stays and see how they use performing to express themselves further than being inmates.

The story being true and also being played by some of the former prison inmates really adds to the before-mentioned message of the movie. The acting was quite good, no one was boring. Directing was also nice overall no complaints.

Loved the small inserts of the ex-prisoners' real performances at the end.