Five days following its global debut at the Toronto International Film Festival, A24 has secured the distribution rights to the drama “Sing Sing,” which features Colman Domingo in a leading role. The independent film company announced the acquisition on Friday evening.
Helmed by director Greg Kwedar, the movie draws its inspiration from the Rehabilitation Through the Arts initiative at New York’s Sing Sing Correctional Facility. It showcases a story where inmates come together to put on theatrical productions. Alongside Domingo, who also appeared in TIFF in the Netflix biopic “Rustin” directed by George C. Wolfe, the film boasts a cast that includes Academy Award-nominated actor Paul Raci for his role in “Sound of Metal,” Clarence Maclin, and Sean San José.
The film “Sing Sing” received financial backing and production support from Black Bear, the Marfa Peach Company, and Edith Productions. The screenplay was a collaborative effort between Greg Kwedar and Clint Bentley, adapted from Brent Buell’s play “Breakin’ the Mummy’s Code” and John H. Richardsons’ “The Sing Sing Follies.” Producers for the project include Monique Walton, Clint Bentley, and Kwedar, while the executive producer lineup also features several of the film’s main actors like Colman Domingo, Clarence Maclin, and others including Raúl Domingo, Michael Heimler, Teddy Schwarzman, Larry Kalas, Larry Kelly, Nancy Schafer, and John “Divine G” Whitfield.
The North American distribution deal was managed by CAA Media Finance, whereas Black Bear is still in negotiations to secure international buyers.
Stephen Saito, a critic for Variety, lauded “Sing Sing,” praising its compassionate and deeply engaging portrayal of the prison system. He emphasized that the film shows people should not be solely defined by their past mistakes. Saito also singled out Domingo’s lead performance as both compelling and masterful, particularly noting his ability to allow his less-experienced co-stars to share the limelight when appropriate. Source
