BREAKING: The highly anticipated film Steal Away, directed by Clement Virgo, premieres today at the Toronto Film Festival, bringing an urgent exploration of power and identity to the forefront. This erotic thriller, featuring Mallori Johnson and Angourie Rice, is set against the backdrop of a stately manor house, where two young women—one Black and one white—unravel a haunting past.
As the film begins, Johnson’s character, CéCile, a young African refugee, arrives at the privileged home of Fanny (Rice), who lives a sheltered life. Their bond develops amidst themes of racism and inequality, echoing Virgo’s previous works like Brother (2022) and The Book of Negroes.
Virgo describes Steal Away as a blend of coming-of-age drama and psychological thriller, infused with horror elements. “It’s partly coming-of-age, but it’s also partly psychological thriller,” he says, emphasizing the film’s allegorical commentary on history and its relevance today.
The narrative is inspired by Karolyn Smardz Frost’s historical nonfiction book, which tells the story of fugitive slave Cecelia Reynolds. Virgo aims to address complex historical themes without overtly politicizing the plot. He notes, “I wanted to speak about the history, without being obvious,” allowing the emotional truth of the characters to emerge organically.
The film takes a gripping turn as CéCile and Fanny engage in a sexual tug-of-war over Rufus, the gardener’s son, played by Idrissa Sanogo Bamba. This dynamic ignites themes of female empowerment and jealousy, creating a charged atmosphere that captivates audiences.
Virgo refrained from providing extensive direction to his leads, opting instead to let them discover their characters’ emotions. “As a director, I try not to be prescriptive,” he explains, fostering an authentic connection between the actors and their roles.
Premiering at TIFF holds special significance for Virgo, who reflects on his journey as a filmmaker. “It’s always a miracle when I make a film, and it’s always special when I show it in my hometown,” he shares, underscoring the emotional weight of the premiere.
With its urgent themes and compelling storytelling, Steal Away is poised to leave a lasting impact at the festival today. Audiences and critics alike are eager to see how this film will resonate in a world grappling with its own ghosts of the past.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.