Sing Sing
Last year, we saw the dominance of Cillian Murphy. Now, this is the reign of Colman Domingo. This is already, and I’m feeling confident saying this, the early lock for Best Actor. His Shakespearian method works as his, Divine G’s, intelligence, love and belief is prevalent the entire time as he uses his abilities to unite inmates through the peaceful unification of the arts. I don’t care how much Oscar-bait this is, simply because of the risks it takes. “Sing Sing” is a movie that gives me reason for hope for the future of cinema, and serves as a huge reason why I love movies in the first place. Besides Colman and a couple others, I believe every actor is a former prisoner playing themselves, which is just a remarkable turnaround and achievement.
You know what this film has that no other has this year? Its sense of hope and escapism. Having the theater and the craft of arts serve as a purpose for these inmates is truly inspiring, and shine a light in the cracks of a broken and oppressed system. Every choice it makes is the right one. The issues that come up aren’t gang related, but more about matters such as play production and fighting for parole. I was so attached to each character and just loved seeing their minds clash over ideas on how to deliver content for the other inmates. Initially, I was aggravated by the limited release and the difficulty finding it in theaters. But I’m thrilled to have it on demand now. I am completely moved by this movie, both the acting and the story. And with the home stretch of the year with all the award-worthy projects approaching, this is my favorite- and I think the best- movie of 2024.