Canadian director Clement Virgo, known for his work on acclaimed series like “The Wire” and “The Book of Negroes,” expressed nervousness about the reception of his latest film, “Steal Away,” set to hit theaters on Friday. Virgo, alongside his wife Tamara Faith Berger, crafted this ambitious project, adapting a fictionalized story of a young girl’s escape to Canada through the Underground Railroad.
Unlike its predecessor “Steal Away Home,” set in the 19th century, “Steal Away” transports viewers to a futuristic reinterpretation of America’s past. The film avoids direct depictions of enslaved individuals, opting for a more imaginative approach. It follows the journey of Cécile and Fanny in a setting that blends elements of the future and the Antebellum South.
With themes ranging from coming-of-age to Afrofuturism, “Steal Away” presents a kaleidoscopic narrative that challenges conventional storytelling. Virgo deliberately blurs historical timelines and power dynamics, aiming to draw parallels between past and present struggles.
Reflecting on his immigration to Canada and societal progress, Virgo questions the permanence of advancement in his latest project. Despite its complex nature, the film carries a message of hope and resilience, urging audiences to continue pushing for a better future.
Virgo’s artistic vision in “Steal Away” sparks contemplation on the cyclical nature of progress and the enduring human spirit, leaving room for interpretation and introspection among viewers.