Roadside Attractions has acquired “Exhibiting Forgiveness,” the directorial debut of artist Titus Kaphar that premiered at this year’s Sundance Film Festival.
The drama, about an acclaimed painter whose life is upended by an unexpected visit from his estranged father, stars André Holland (“Moonlight”) and John Earl Jelks (“Miracle at St. Anna”), along with Oscar nominees Andra Day (“The United States vs. Billie Holiday”) and Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor (“King Richard”). Kaphar wrote the film, in addition to directing it.
“‘Exhibiting Forgiveness’ was produced by Stephanie Allain, Derek Cianfrance, Jamie Patricof and Sean Cotton. Roadside plans to open the film nationwide for the fall awards season.
Holland stars as Tarrell Rodin, an artist who lives with his wife, singer-songwriter Aisha (Day), and young son Jermaine. His artwork explores the anguish of his youth. His path to success is derailed when his father, La’Ron (Jelks), a recovering addict desperate to make amends, re-enters the picture.
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In a positive review out of Sundance, Variety‘s Owen Gleiberman praised the film for avoiding ” the clichés of reconciliation” and added “it’s a feel-the-reality movie, a drama willing to scald. That’s its quiet power.”
Kaphar is the recipient of a Robert R. Rauschenberg Artist as Activist grant, a Creative Capital Award, an Art for Justice Fund grant and a MacArthur Fellowship, among others. Kaphar’s painting, “Analagous Colors,” was featured on the cover of the June 15, 2020, issue of Time. His 2017 TED talk has received 2.8 million views to date. His work is included in the collections of the Detroit Institute of Arts; the Yale University Art Gallery; the Seattle Art Museum; The Museum of Modern Art; and the Brooklyn Museum.
“Titus has changed the world with his art, and this film will bring him a legion of new fans and delight the many who already love his work,” said Roadside Attractions co-presidents Howard Cohen and Eric d’Arbeloff. “These are four jaw-dropping performances which we have no doubt is the finest ensemble filmgoers will see this year.”
Kaphar added, “Even the most extraordinary film in the world would remain hidden without the right distribution team; I’m so excited that our film has found its champion. Roadside has a reputation for bringing us unflinching movie experiences that center innovative and character-driven storytelling. I’m honored to have their support, and proud that ‘Exhibiting Forgiveness’ will become part of their outstanding portfolio.”
The deal was negotiated by Roadside Attractions’ Cohen and d’Arbeloff and UTA Independent Film Group on behalf of the filmmakers.