Oscar Nominee Film Review: SING SING

One of the joys of trying to watch all of the Oscar nominated films is that it forces one to watch films that, normally, one might not seek out - and sometimes you find a gem amongst all of the quartz.

Such is the case with SING SING.

Co-Written and Directed by Greg Kwedar in only his 2nd full length Motion Picture Directorial effort, SING SING tells the “based on real life” story of inmates in famed Maximum Security Prison, Sing Sing (in New York) who find purpose in life (and their incarceration) by using the power art (in this case, theater) to transform their outlook.

It is a strong film with a powerful message made all the more poignant when you realize that many, many of the performers in the film are actual inmates in Sing Sing who participate in the theater program.

Colman Domingo, rightfully, earns a Best Actor Oscar Nomination for the 2nd year in a row as the central figure in this story, John “Divine G” Whitfield who’s perch as the top dog in this inmate theater company is threatened by newcomer Clarence “Divine Eye” Maclin (played by…Clarence “Divine Eye” Maclin, an ex-member of the Sing Sing company who co-wrote the Oscar Nominated Screen play with Kwedar, Clint Bentley and the real-life John “Divine G” Whitfield). Both Divine G and Divine Eye have to come to grips with their own internal demons while trying to align with each other on creating art that is at the heart of this story.

And…heart is a GREAT word for this film, for it is full of it. This inmates are hardened criminals on the outside, but cut to their hearts and there is much tenderness, pain and love to be had by all. Both Domingo and Maclin give strong performances here.

As does Paul Raci as the outside Theater Director who drives the program - and the inmates - to heights unbelieved by the inmates and those around them. This is only the 2nd film performance by veteran Chicago Theater Actor Raci that I have seen (following his Oscar nominated turn in SOUND OF METAL a few years ago), but he is fast becoming a mark of quality.

Credit for the tone and pacing of the film must go to Director Kwedar who focuses on the actors and their performers without becoming too cloying or lingering too long on any scene or emotion. He walks a very delicate balance - and he walks it very well.

A quiet, interesting and heart-felt film that, hopefully, will get more eyes on it since it has 3 well-earned Oscar Nominations.

Letter Grade: A-

8 stars (out of 10) and you can take that to the Bank (ofMarquis)