Reels & Roots, a local film nonprofit, is inviting Indianapolis residents to a free documentary screening on Sunday, September 27 at 5 p.m. The event will be held at the Phoenix Theatre Cultural Centre, located at 705 N. Illinois St.
About the Film
“BEYOND” follows a group of incarcerated men at Sing Sing Correctional Facility as they prepare for a public‑speaking event modeled after TED Talks, titled “Beyond the Block.” The film captures the men’s journey from auditions through their moments on stage, sharing personal stories of redemption, vulnerability, and their perspectives on systemic change.
Special Guest
After the screening, audience members will have the opportunity to speak with director and producer Asia Johnson, who will discuss the making of the documentary and the broader impact of arts programs in prisons.
Connection to Earlier Work
The documentary builds on the success of the 2023 feature film “Sing Sing,” which highlighted the prison’s Rehabilitation Through the Arts program. That film, starring Colman Domingo, earned three Academy Award nominations, including Best Actor. Formerly incarcerated actors Clarence Maclin and JJ Velazquez, who served as executive producers on “Sing Sing,” are also executive producers on Johnson’s new project.
How to Attend
The event is free, but registration is required. Interested attendees should register online through the Reels & Roots website. Light refreshments will be provided after the film and conversation.
Community Impact
By showcasing the voices of men behind bars, the screening aims to foster community dialogue about redemption, the role of the arts in rehabilitation, and the potential for systemic reform. The event reflects Indianapolis’s vibrant cultural scene and its commitment to supporting nonprofit arts initiatives.
For more information, visit the Reels & Roots website or contact the organization directly.
Original reporting: Mirror Indy — read the source article.
