The Journey of Creating Sing Sing: A Deep Dive into the Film’s Heart and Soul
Creating a film is often a journey filled with passion, dedication, and a lot of hard work. In the case of Sing Sing, directed by Greg Kwedar, this journey is particularly profound as it delves into the lives of incarcerated individuals and the transformative power of art. This blog explores the detailed process behind the making of Sing Sing, uncovering the layers of storytelling, character development, and the unique approach taken by Kwedar and his team.
The Inspiration Behind Sing Sing
The genesis of Sing Sing began nearly eight years ago when Greg Kwedar stumbled upon a powerful story during a project about life inside a maximum-security prison. It was here he learned about the incredible work done by the Rehabilitation Through the Arts (RTA) program, which has been providing incarcerated individuals with opportunities to express themselves through theater since 1996.
At the heart of this narrative is John Divine G. Whitfield, a founding member of the RTA program, who has dedicated his life to helping others find their voice amidst the harsh realities of prison life. Kwedar’s journey took him from producing a short documentary to discovering the profound impact of the arts on rehabilitation, ultimately leading him to the idea of creating a feature film.
The Unique Setting of Sing Sing
Sing Sing prison, located in New York, is not just a backdrop for the film but a character in its own right. Kwedar describes the experience of arriving at Sing Sing: “One unique thing about Sing Sing is it’s one of the only prisons in the world where a commuter train goes through the yard.” This unusual aspect symbolizes the constant reminder of the outside world for those incarcerated.
Meeting the Real-Life Characters
In his quest to create an authentic narrative, Kwedar met with real inmates involved in the RTA program. He recalls a breakfast meeting at the home of Brent Buell, the theater teacher, where he met Clarence Devine I. Macklin and Divine G. Whitfield. This meeting was pivotal, as it provided Kwedar with insight into the strength, resilience, and humanity of the men behind the prison walls.
“Divine G is someone who fights for justice not just for himself but for those around him,” Kwedar explains, highlighting the essence of the characters that would eventually drive the film’s narrative.
The Writing Process: A Labor of Love
The screenplay for Sing Sing underwent significant transformations throughout its development. Kwedar and his creative partner, Clint Bentley, faced challenges in capturing the energy and authenticity of the program and the stories of the individuals involved. They conducted three major rewrites, refining the focus from a broad ensemble to a more intimate narrative centering on the friendship between Divine G and Divine I.
“We had to expand our circle,” Kwedar notes, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and community in the writing process. By involving the men from the RTA program, they were able to infuse the screenplay with genuine experiences and emotions.
Finding the Right Actors
One of the most critical aspects of the film was casting. Kwedar had a clear vision for the character of Divine G from the beginning. “I wrote Coleman Domingo as Divine G into my notebook,” he recalls, illustrating his instinctive choice for the role. Domingo, a talented actor and playwright, resonated deeply with the project and brought not only his acting skills but also his creative insights to the production.
“He loved every aspect of the process, from the work he did on the script to being an executive producer,” Kwedar reveals, highlighting Domingo’s multifaceted involvement in bringing the film to life.
Creating a Collaborative Environment
The film’s production fostered a unique collaborative environment. Kwedar and his team employed a model where everyone involved in the project worked for the same rate, emphasizing that all contributions were valued equally. “It was a culture where the best ideas could be seen and come forward,” Kwedar explains.
This approach not only encouraged creativity but also built a strong sense of community among the cast and crew, many of whom were alumni from the RTA program. The film became a mosaic of their experiences, adding depth and authenticity to the narrative.
The Directing Process: Empathy and Listening
As a director, Kwedar prioritized performance, spending time with his actors to understand their processes and needs. He believed that creating a safe space for experimentation and vulnerability was essential for genuine performances. “I love seeing potential in people and helping them bring everything they have out to shine,” he states.
This philosophy was evident on set, where moments of emotional truth often emerged organically. Kwedar recalls instances where actors were moved by their own performances, leading to powerful and authentic moments captured on film.
Securing A24’s Interest
Kwedar’s journey eventually led him to A24, a company known for its commitment to unique and impactful storytelling. “I met with A24 almost eight years ago,” he shares, recounting the initial interest sparked by the concept of a cinematic upheaval in prison narratives. After years of development, A24 saw the film at its premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival and responded with enthusiasm.
Their connection to the film was deeply personal, aligning with Kwedar’s vision of creating a story that resonates on a human level. “They were very personal around how the movie touched each of them as humans,” he notes, reinforcing the film’s emotional core.
The Impact of Sing Sing
Sing Sing is not just a film; it’s a powerful statement about the potential for redemption and the importance of community. Kwedar emphasizes that the film aims to reach incarcerated individuals, providing them with hope and inspiration. “We want to create opportunities for alumni to be there in the room for those screenings,” he explains, highlighting the film’s commitment to fostering connections and encouraging personal growth.
The film’s message resonates deeply with audiences, offering a nuanced perspective on the lives of those within the prison system. The feedback from viewers, especially those who are incarcerated, has been overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing appreciation for the film’s honesty and emotional depth.
Final Thoughts: Trusting the Process
As Kwedar reflects on the journey of making Sing Sing, he emphasizes the importance of patience and trust in the creative process. “You have to do the work and be in a place where they might be able to arrive,” he advises aspiring filmmakers. This mindset not only applies to filmmaking but also to the broader journey of life.
In the end, Sing Sing stands as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of art. It invites audiences to engage with complex narratives and offers hope to those who need it most.
