The Holland Project is thrilled that EXHIBITING FORGIVENESS will be the opening night film of the 26th annual Sidewalk Film Festival presented by Regions Bank. The directorial debut of artist Titus Kaphar, EXHIBITING FORGIVENESS stars Bessemer native André Holland, whose vision is guiding the renovation of the Lincoln Theatre.
André Holland and Andra Day in EXHIBITING FORGIVENESS.
The film follows the journey of Tarrell (Holland), a successful Black artist whose life is disrupted by the unexpected return of his estranged father, La’Ron (John Earl Jelks), a recovering addict seeking reconciliation. As Tarrell prepares for a new gallery show, he struggles with traumatic memories of his childhood and the unresolved pain inflicted by his father. While his mother, Joyce (Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor), has forgiven La’Ron, Tarrell grapples with the challenge of forgiveness.
The Sidewalk screening is sponsored by Gilead. Director Kaphar and Holland will be in attendance and will participate in a post-film discussion.
“Watching Exhibiting Forgiveness was the cathartic hug I didn’t realize I needed, especially after losing my father, with whom I had a complicated and layered relationship. I saw myself in Tarrell, wrestling between standing in my truth and drawing a line in the sand. How does one process childhood trauma and learn to forgive at the same time? This phenomenal film is an opportunity to find your own pathway to healing and celebrate the power of choice. I hope everyone sees Exhibiting Forgiveness, you will not regret it.”
– Black Lens Lead Programmer T. Marie King
André Holland headlined the Arc Stories event at the Lyric during Sidewalk 2019.
The film marks another milestone in Sidewalk’s support of the Lincoln renovation. In 2019, festival organizers hosted a filmmaker retreat in downtown Bessemer and brought more than 150 filmmakers to tour the Lincoln (and to enjoy snapper throats at The Bright Star, the oldest restaurant in Alabama). During the same festival weekend, André headlined the Arc Stories live storytelling event at the Lyric.
Sidewalk Executive Director Chloe Cook has been an advocate for the Lincoln since the project was announced.
“We are particularly excited about the impact the restored space would have on the arts and educational landscape of not only Bessemer, but the entire Birmingham metro area,” Cook wrote in a letter of support. “We believe every city deserves a thriving arts community and for that to exist there must be a hub where artists and makers can interact with one another and with supporters. It seems that the restored Lincoln Theatre would serve precisely that role for Bessemer.”