Colman Domingo is set to showcase his talent in the upcoming A24 drama Sing Sing, where he uses the performing arts to connect with fellow inmates. The film, directed by Greg Kwedar, is scheduled for release in July after its premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival last year.
Sing Sing delves into the real-life Rehabilitation Through the Arts (RTA) program, which allows prisoners at New York's Sing Sing Correctional Facility to participate in producing and acting in their own stage projects. The movie features Domingo and Paul Raci, alongside a cast primarily comprised of formerly incarcerated actors, many of whom have previously engaged in the RTA program.
The storyline of Sing Sing revolves around the friendship between inmates John Divine G Whitfield (portrayed by Domingo) and Clarence Divine Eye Maclin, who plays himself. The inmates collaborate to create an original production titled Breakin' the Mummy's Code. The film is inspired by author John H. Richardson's 2005 Esquire article, 'The Sing Sing Follies,' and the stage play of the same name, written by RTA's theater director Brent Buell and performed at Sing Sing in 2005.
In the trailer, Domingo expresses his admiration for the RTA program, highlighting its role in helping individuals connect with their emotions and undergo rehabilitation. Director Kwedar, in collaboration with Clint Bentley, co-wrote the script, with Whitfield and Maclin contributing to the story. The film is produced by Kwedar, Bentley, and Monique Walton.
According to a review by The Hollywood Reporter, Sing Sing's sensitive portrayal of its characters makes it a poignant reflection of contemporary society. Domingo, known for his role in Netflix's Rustin and his upcoming portrayal of Joe Jackson in Lionsgate's Michael Jackson biopic, credits his co-stars in Sing Sing for pushing him to deliver his most authentic performance yet.
