BREAKING: The highly anticipated film Steal Away, directed by Clement Virgo, premiered at the Toronto Film Festival today, captivating audiences with its intricate exploration of power and identity. The film intertwines themes of race, history, and female empowerment, as it delves into the uncharted territories of a stately manor’s past.
Virgo, known for his previous works including Rude (1995) and Brother (2022), returns to challenging narratives that confront racism and inequality. In Steal Away, he tells the story of two young women—Cécile, portrayed by Mallori Johnson, a young African refugee, and Fanny, depicted by Angourie Rice, a sheltered white woman. Their bond deepens as they unravel the secrets of the manor where they reside, mirroring the emotional complexities of their lives.
The film begins as a feminist drama but swiftly morphs into a psychological thriller with horror elements. Virgo explains, “It’s partly coming-of-age, but it’s also partly psychological thriller. I hope to play with horror elements, ultimately creating an allegory about the past and present.”
Drawing inspiration from Karolyn Smardz Frost’s historical nonfiction book, Steal Away Home, which chronicles the journey of fugitive slave Cecelia Reynolds, the film reveals the intertwined fates of its characters while avoiding overt political statements. Virgo emphasizes the importance of subtlety, stating, “I wanted to speak about history without being obvious.”
The film features a sexually charged dynamic as Cécile and Fanny engage in a tug-of-war over Rufus, the gardener’s son, played by Idrissa Sanogo Bamba. This narrative choice highlights themes of jealousy and awakening, resonating with contemporary discussions on female empowerment.
Virgo’s unique directing style allows for organic performances. He notes, “I try not to be prescriptive in terms of how I approach the work and how I relate to the actors.” This approach fosters authenticity, allowing the lead actresses to discover their characters’ emotional depths.
The excitement surrounding Steal Away is palpable, especially for Virgo, who reflects on his journey: “It’s always a miracle when I make a film, and it’s always special when I show it in my hometown.” Having made his first short film in 1991 in Toronto, he expresses gratitude for the festival’s support throughout his career.
As the film unfolds, audiences are left to ponder the complex interplay of race, identity, and history. Steal Away is poised to spark conversations both in cinemas and beyond.
Stay tuned for further updates on this compelling story as it continues to resonate with viewers and critics alike.
