Introduction
Andra Day, fresh off her intense role in The Deliverance, is set to return to the big screen with a more nurturing role in Exhibiting Forgiveness, the directorial debut of artist Titus Kaphar. Scheduled for a theatrical release on October 18, the film explores themes of healing and reconciliation, featuring a standout performance from Day alongside André Holland. In a recent interview at the film’s L.A. premiere, Day shared her excitement about working with Holland and the profound impact the experience had on her.
A Star-Studded Collaboration
In Exhibiting Forgiveness, Andra Day plays Aisha, a singer-songwriter and wife to André Holland’s character, Tarrell Rodin, a renowned painter grappling with unresolved personal issues. The film’s plot unfolds as Rodin’s estranged father, La’Ron (played by John Earl Jelks), returns to mend their fractured relationship, driven by the encouragement of Rodin’s mother Joyce (Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor).
Day, who had long admired Holland’s acting prowess, described working with him as a significant milestone in her career. “I have to tell you, working with him was a bucket list [item] because he’s your favorite actor’s favorite actor. He’s like the Jazmine Sullivan of acting where everybody’s like, ‘So that’s actually the best singer.’ He’s actually the best actor,” Day remarked.
A Deep Dive into Artistry
Holland’s dedication to his role extended beyond acting. He spent three months with Kaphar in his Connecticut studio learning the art of painting to authentically portray an artist. His commitment to realism was highlighted by longtime friend and fellow actor Russell Hornsby, who praised Holland’s depth and dedication to his craft. “André goes deep into his artistry,” Hornsby said. “He’s very committed, and it comes out in the work that he does.”
Day also contributed to the film’s musical score, working with composer Jherek Bischoff to create the track “Bricks.” Reflecting on her songwriting process, Day shared that the song’s theme centers around the challenging journey of forgiveness and the creation of a better future despite a painful past. “When you come from a history of abuse, for you to be able to create an environment of peace and of joy and of prosperity, that’s beautiful,” she noted.
Titus Kaphar’s Artistic Journey
Kaphar, who began with a series of paintings inspired by his childhood experiences, transitioned into filmmaking with Exhibiting Forgiveness. The film, born out of a cathartic artistic process, allowed Kaphar to further explore his personal healing journey. He admitted that directing the film helped him confront unresolved issues. “Watching André go through what I went through, there was a compassion that I could have for him that I couldn’t have for myself,” Kaphar said. “I started crying. I was sobbing.”
Conclusion
Exhibiting Forgiveness promises to be a powerful exploration of personal and familial reconciliation, enriched by the performances of Andra Day and André Holland. With Titus Kaphar’s unique artistic vision and the film’s strong emotional core, it is poised to resonate deeply with audiences.
