*An exquisite, rare gem to grace the screen is Titus Kaphar’s “Exhibiting Forgiveness.” Renowned world artist Kaphar has captured on film some of the extraordinary images he has put on canvases.
It was delightful to speak with him and cast members Andra Day (“The United States vs. Billie Holiday,” “The Deliverance”) and John Earl Jelks (“Miracle at St. Anna,” “Night Comes On”).
Of course, I asked the redundant question of what they want audiences to take away from the film.
TITUS KAPHAR: I hope that people take hope away from the film. They see this one artist’s strategy for dealing with the trauma in his life, and maybe that brings up an opportunity for them on how to deal with the trauma in their own lives.
ANDRA DAY: But it’s a really good question. Listen, it’s hard cause with this movie because there are a lot of things I’d like people to take away from it. But I think the main thing I want them to take away is that A, forgive, and not just ask for forgiveness, but seek forgiveness. And in doing so, have grace. Do not forget that forgiveness is a very hard-fought battle. It’s the right thing to do. Just don’t think that we’ll forgive one day and that’s it. It’s something we have to choose. Forgiveness, like love, is a choice that we have to make every day. And so I think we need to have a little more grace with each other and understand it’s work.
Scroll to continue reading
JOHN EARL JELKS: I would basically like people to say, well, it’s time to maybe have that conversation with whomever I need to forgive. I feel somebody may recognize this guy. Then, they can start a conversation about who this guy is…and look inside their own lives.
Titus, could you say this film serves as a vehicle for Black healing?
You said it perfectly! The thing that has been so uplifting to me is that this film has been responded to universally. That element is definitely there. There is a particular connection for Black folks when they see this film, absolutely. But to my surprise, because it is so personal, because it is so specific I was surprised by the fact that black and white audiences have connected with it.
“Exhibiting Forgiveness” is a deeply personal journey of a man confronting the past and finding his place within it. As a successful artist, Tarrell (Andre Holland) has worked hard to distance himself from the pain and chaos of his childhood, shaped by the absence of his father, La’Ron (Jelks), who was lost to addiction and despair.
But when La’Ron suddenly reappears, seeking redemption and a chance to reconnect, Tarrell is forced to face unresolved wounds that have long haunted him.
Veteran, syndicated journalist Marie Moore reports on mainstream media and the Black diaspora. Facebook.com/TheFilmStrip – X: @thefilmstrip – Instagram: @thefilmstriptm
MORE NEWS ON EURWEB.COM: Trina Talks Grief, Miscarriage and New Memoir on ‘Tamron Hall’ Show | Video
