‘Exhibiting Forgiveness’ Is A Moving Portrayal Of What It's Like To Heal Past Traumas

André Holland, Andra Day and John Earl Jelks talk about spirituality in storytelling, taking on challenging roles and the wounds they healed while filming this powerful movie.

“Exhibiting Forgiveness” is a powerful narrative that blends artistry, emotion and cultural significance.

Titus Kaphar brings the same visionary approach to his directorial debut that has made him one of the most influential contemporary painters of our time. Known for reimagining history and highlighting marginalized voices through his art, Kaphar applies his keen eye for detail and emotional depth to every scene. His transition from canvas to cinema feels seamless, turning each frame of “Exhibiting Forgiveness” into a visual and emotional masterpiece.

The film is loosely based on Kaphar’s life, detailing pivotal moments of his past and present. It follows Tarrell (André Holland), an artist who receives an unexpected visit from his estranged father La’Ron (theater veteran John Earl Jelks). La’Ron is a recovering addict on a mission to repair his relationship with his son, who’s caught between dwelling on his past hurts and the possibility of healing. Andra Day shines in the film as Aisha, Tarrell’s wife. The cast also includes Golden Globe nominee Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor as Joyce, Tarrell’s mother, who also delivers a powerful performance. The film is in theaters Friday.

Holland and Day are two performers known for their commitment to roles that help redefine Black representation. Holland, celebrated for his nuanced portrayals of complex men in films like “Moonlight” and “High Flying Bird,” once again takes on a role that challenges and elevates. Like Holland, Day is drawn to roles that offer emotional depth and authenticity, and her performance in this film is a testament to the raw emotions she brings to every project she chooses. With Kaphar’s direction, the ensemble cast elevates “Exhibiting Forgiveness” into a moving exploration of family, reconciliation and the transformative power of forgiveness.

HuffPost spoke to Holland, Day and Jelks about the film’s spiritual themes, how working on it changed the stars’ own relationships with forgiveness and how they’ve maintained a sense of positivity while tackling heavy subjects.