In a maximum-security prison, the imagination flies free

OUT OF SIGHT, OUT OF MIND IS how most Americans probably think about incarcerated individualsuntil an acquaintance or a loved one lands in a correctional facility, after plotting a crime or perhaps just acting impulsively in a heated moment.

- STEPHANIE ZACHAREK

It's easy, and comfortable, to pass judgment. But Greg Kwedar's true-to-life prison drama Sing Sing asks more of us: If we believe in our own capacity for growth and change, how can we not extend that good faith to other individuals who have made mistakes? Colman Domingo stars as John "Divine G" Whitfield, serving time at the infamous New York prison Sing Sing for a crime he didn't commit, though he's hopeful that an upcoming clemency hearing might clear his name. In the meantime, he's become deeply invested in a prison theater program, not only performing but also serving on its steering committee, helping to determine who joins the program and what productions get mounted. He's also written a play himself, one that he hopes might someday make it to the stage.

He and his closest friend Mike Mike (Sean San José) are always looking for new men who might benefit the group-and benefit from it. They approach Clarence "Divine Eye" Maclin (a real-life alumnus of a similar arts program, playing himself), who has a reputation as a tough guy around the yard.