This Brand-New Andra Day Film Is So Good it Deserves an Oscar: 5 Out of 5 Stars

Just a few weeks ago, while joining a press event for her film Never Let Go, I heard Halle Berry say these words: "We pour some stuff and then we spill other things. I have a lot of spills, and I've spent my whole life trying to deal with those spills." These were the words that came to mind as I watched one particularly fascinating scene, where Tarrell records his dad, La'Ron (John Earl Jelks), casually reflecting on his own father's abusive behavior. In this case, it feels more accurate to call La'Ron's "spills" an avalanche, because he emulated his father's toxic behavior—all under the guise of teaching his son to have a backbone and a strong work ethic. But that approach backfires, because what he's created is a deeply troubled artist who's haunted by his past.

Throughout the film, Tarrell grapples with feelings of resentment and anger toward his dad, and at times I felt those emotions right along with him—especially after seeing those heartbreaking flashbacks. But what I loved most was how Kaphar revealed the complicated and messy process of trying to break this toxic cycle. Tarrell is determined not to follow in his father's footsteps, and he's shown to be a patient, caring and compassionate father to his little boy. However, he comes to realize that simply altering his parenting techniques isn't enough.

This film was challenging to watch, but it felt necessary because I could see a bit of myself in Tarrell. Forgiving people and trying to cultivate healthy relationships with them is so hard. Especially when they're responsible for some of your trauma. So, I imagine millions of other viewers will relate as Tarrell opens up about awful memories living rent-free in his mind, and I'm sure many will understand his discomfort and awkwardness as he confronts the one person he's struggling to forgive. But I must say, it's incredibly inspiring to see Tarrell honor his mom's request and at least try to make peace. It serves as a reminder that forgiveness, while difficult, is necessary in one's healing journey.

This film features some of the most stunning art pieces, but what I find most intriguing is that they were all inspired by Tarrell's troubled past. The fact that he takes so much beauty out of the darkest moments of his life is just incredible, and it's clear that the process of creating them has a therapeutic effect. For instance, he's quick to sneak off to his art studio and work on new pieces whenever he's unable to sleep or clear his head.

Still, the film acknowledges that while creating art can work wonders for our mental health, it's not necessarily a cure-all. Tarrell develops a rhythm of channeling his complicated emotions into his work, but chaos ensues when his estranged father returns because there's still unresolved tension and bitterness. As Aisha so eloquently puts it, "Some things can't be worked out on canvas."

Andra Day is my absolute fave, so it was a treat to see her play Tarrell's wife (and hear her sing!). Her chemistry with Holland is spot on, and I especially enjoyed seeing her dynamic with Tarrell's mom. But as much as I enjoyed Day's performance, Holland and Jelks steal the show.

Holland is definitely in his element here, having mastered the art of speaking volumes with just a look or small gesture. And his on-screen relationship with Jelks feels so authentic—from the anger in Tarrell's eyes when he looks at his dad to La’Ron's desperate attempts to reconcile. Their shared scenes are, by far, the most compelling and emotional, but the entire cast is simply fantastic.

Exhibiting Forgiveness is a masterpiece that features stellar performances and brilliantly tackles the complicated process of healing from generational trauma. The moving tale will tug at heartstrings and challenge viewers to examine their own traumatic experiences.

For a full breakdown of PureWow's entertainment rating system, click here.

Get more entertainment news sent to your inbox by subscribing here.