Director Clement Virgo’s new film, “Steal Away,” premieres at the Toronto International Film Festival. The movie tells the story of two young women from different backgrounds. Their bond forms while uncovering secrets in a manor house.
This marks Virgo’s return to exploring themes of racism and inequality. The film blends multiple genres into a unique narrative. It is inspired by historical events but takes creative liberties.
Steal Away Explores Complex Historical and Personal Themes
The film stars Mallori Johnson as Cécile, an African refugee. Angourie Rice plays Fanny, a sheltered young woman. Their lives intertwine in a privileged household.
Lauren Lee Smith portrays Fanny’s mother, Florence. The story avoids overt political statements. Instead, it focuses on the personal dynamics between characters.
According to industry reports, the project drew inspiration from historical nonfiction. Karolyn Smardz Frost’s “Steal Away Home” provided a starting point. Virgo transformed the source material into an allegorical tale.
Genre-Bending Approach Defies Conventional Storytelling
“Steal Away” begins as a feminist drama before shifting tones. It incorporates elements of psychological thriller and horror. The film even flirts with supernatural themes.
Virgo cites Ingmar Bergman’s “Persona” as a key influence. David Lynch’s “Mulholland Drive” also inspired the dual character roles. This approach creates an eerie, atmospheric experience.
The director employs his characteristic hands-off approach with actors. He allows performers to discover their characters emotionally. This method creates authentic, compelling performances.
Idrissa Sanogo Bamba plays Rufus, the gardener’s son. His character becomes the object of desire for both women. This triggers a sexual awakening and intense jealousy.
“Steal Away” represents another career milestone for Virgo at TIFF. The festival has premiered all his feature films since the beginning. This hometown showcase remains special for the Jamaican-born director.
Thought you’d like to know
What is Steal Away about?
It follows two young women uncovering secrets in a manor house. Their relationship evolves amid themes of race and power. The story blends drama with thriller elements.
Is Steal Away based on a true story?
The film draws inspiration from historical nonfiction. It uses “Steal Away Home” as a jumping-off point. However, it takes significant creative liberties with the source material.
What genres does the film incorporate?
It begins as a feminist coming-of-age drama. The story then incorporates psychological thriller elements. Horror and supernatural touches appear throughout.
Who stars in the film?
Mallori Johnson plays Cécile, an African refugee. Angourie Rice portrays Fanny, her sheltered counterpart. Lauren Lee Smith appears as Fanny’s mother.
How does this film compare to Virgo’s previous work?
It continues his exploration of racism and inequality. The director maintains his signature approach to actor direction. This marks his sixth feature premiere at TIFF.
Trusted Sources: Toronto International Film Festival, Reuters, industry screening reports
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