After viewing the film Exhibiting Forgiveness, I first want to give the main character, Tarrell (Andre Holland), a hug. Utilizing the words of the grand old negro spiritual, “Nobody knows the trouble I’ve seen,” is a small indication of how generational trauma unchecked can bleed into the crevices of our lives, causing a severe hemorrhage that will leave us paralyzed to our core. You’re not ready for what this film is cooking through paint with an all-star cast featuring André Holland, Andra Day, John Earl Jelks, Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor, John Earl Jelks, and Director/Writer Titus Kaphar. Moviegoers won’t have to wait long as the film premieres in theaters on Friday, October 18.
Although I didn’t quite know what to expect beforehand, I was pleasantly surprised to witness Tarrell (Andre Holland) take us through the pivotal journey of surrendering his interpretation of what Forgiveness looks like, which will haunt you with a sincere feeling of freedom. This film is heavy, but it is worth its weight in gold.
From the African American perspective, Exhibiting Forgiveness can be more than just a film. It is a pathway to discussing the depths of our trauma in familial relationships. The juxtaposition of blending the idea of the Christian walk with our pain made me feel a hallelujah in my soul. Tarrell is a great example of what happens when we throw scripture toward someone’s pain without acknowledging their brokenness. My hands lifted at the conclusion as tears rolled down my eyes —because Tarrell preached! Oh, the ending is a chef’s kiss.
The majesty of witnessing art intertwined with life’s experiences made the quiet moments in the film speak loudly through the hues of color. Art also has a voice, and Director Titus Kaphar is most known in the Fine Arts world for his professional work creating award-winning canvasses and sculptures. I give him a bravo for the profound job he completed through this film.
I don’t disqualify the supporting cast for their contributions to this canvas because everyone made this artistry puzzle fit magnetically for a sound storytelling experience. For example, you can throw a pitch at Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor, and she will knock out the role every time. It’s a shame Ellis-Taylor hasn’t received the award recognition she deserves for her long-lasting and steadfast excellent work in the film industry. One of the most heartbreaking and conscious moments in the film is when Tarrell questions his mother’s choices in life. Then, realizing the mother was also a victim in this vicious cycle of abuse made me push my pondering judgment to the side.
The voice of Andra Day beautifully echoes the mood and actions she portrays in honoring the sanctity of her husband and a marriage that is on the brink of breaking down in unimaginable ways. The featured song she sings is “Bricks,” it makes me want to sit and listen with a better understanding of how we can overcome our obstacles through the tedious process of obedience and Forgiveness.
Overall, I recommend this film and hope it helps those working towards healing and discovering freedom for their souls.
Exhibiting Forgiveness Film Synopsis: Tarrell (Holland) is an admired American painter who lives with his wife, singer Aisha (Day), and their young son, Jermaine. Tarrell’s artwork excavates beauty from the anguish of his youth, keeping past wounds at bay. His path to success is derailed by an unexpected visit from his estranged father, La’Ron (Jelks), a conscience-stricken man desperate to reconcile.
Tarrell’s mother, Joyce (Ellis-Taylor) a pious woman with a profound and joyful spirituality, hopes that Tarrell can open his heart to forgiveness, giving them all another chance at being a family. Tarrell and La’Ron learn that forgetting might be a greater challenge than forgiving in this raw and deeply moving film.
