Amazon Prime has just discreetly added a ‘magnificent’ film to its roster that many fans believe should have picked up more Oscar nominations than it actually received.
Sing Sing is now available for subscribers to watch on the streaming platform at no additional cost.
The film made its debut at the Toronto International Film Festival in 2023 and had a limited cinema release in 2024.
A wider release was planned but didn’t quite materialise although it was shown in more locations during awards season, but as a result, many movie fans may have missed its original release.
It tells the true story of a man wrongfully imprisoned at Sing Sing who, when joined by a sceptical outsider, finds purpose in staging an original comedy with a theatre group of other incarcerated men.
Colman Domingo is nominated for an Oscar for Sing Sing (Image: A24)
Don’t miss…
The inspiration came from two main sources: The Sing Sing Follies, an Esquire article by John H. Richardson about the play staged in the prison, and Breakin’ The Mummy’s Code, the actual play performed by the prisoners.
The production took its real-life inspiration seriously, with much of the cast having been part of the Rehabilitation Through the Arts (RTA) programme. They are led by professional actor Colman Domingo, who is nominated for Best Actor at this year’s Academy Awards.
the film also received Oscar nominations for Best Adapted Screenplay and Best Original Song.
It is inspired by an article published in Esquire (Image: A24)
The film, upon its release, received critical acclaim and quickly escalated to a nearly perfect 97% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Critics were left stunned; one remarked: “There are so many things to say about this amazing movie. It gets you in the guts and it gets you in the feels. Colman Domingo got an Oscar nomination for this role and it’s well-earned.”
Another heaped further praise, saying: “The best film of 2024. A beautiful example of real life and reel life blending in the most unique and inspiring manner possible.”
USA Today’s reviewer wasn’t far behind, offering: “Only those without a beating heart would deny the emotional catharsis of Sing Sing, a film largely staffed by real-life formerly incarcerated actors playing past versions of themselves.”
It’s not just film critics who are singing praises for ‘Sing Sing’; fans are equally vocal. An admirer shared their thoughts online: “Beautiful movie about an incredible story. Love that most of the actors were actual prisoners from the theatre program. Coleman is superb as the lead. A must see.”
Yet some viewers think the film deserved even more Oscars glory, with one arguing: “Best movie I’ve seen from last year. Film is superb. Poignant, moving, a powerful portrait of humanity through the lens of incarcerated men in Sing Sing prison. The acting is tremendous. The screenplay is excellent. Should’ve gotten a Best Picture Oscar nomination.”
Echoing the sentiment, another fan raved: “The best film of 2024 hands down! Colman Domingo, as usual, did his thing. Clarence Maclin’s debut performance was extremely impressive! Like some Oscar type stuff! I highly recommend.”
Sing Sing is streaming on Amazon Prime.