Clement Virgo approaches his latest film, “Steal Away,” with a mix of nerves and hope, unlike what you might anticipate from a director with a notable portfolio including projects like “The Wire” and “The Book of Negroes.” As the movie hits theaters this Friday, Virgo admits to feeling uncertain about its reception among a broader audience.
Acknowledging the ambitious nature of “Steal Away,” which he co-wrote with his wife Tamara Faith Berger, the film diverges from the traditional narrative of a 15-year-old girl’s escape to Canada via the Underground Railroad. Instead of focusing on the 19th century setting, “Steal Away” is set in a futuristic world, reimagining America’s history through a fantastical lens.
The storyline revolves around two central characters, Cécile and Fanny, portrayed by Mallori Johnson and Angourie Rice, respectively. The plot unfolds as Cécile encounters Fanny’s family, residing in a futuristic yet reminiscently Antebellum South-inspired Belgium. The narrative delves into themes of coming-of-age, psychosexual thriller, horror, and Afrofuturism, offering a complex and multi-layered storyline.
Virgo deliberately incorporates elements of Afrofuturism into “Steal Away,” showcasing elaborate costumes and hints of a powerful, enigmatic Black-led society. Through this approach, Virgo blurs the historical timeframe depicted in the film, presenting a modern yet ambiguously balanced fictional world.
The director aims to draw parallels between historical events like slavery in the Antebellum South, World War II, and colonialism, highlighting the cyclical nature of history. Amidst the intricate narrative and symbolism, Virgo poses a fundamental question in “Steal Away”: is progress ever truly permanent? The film’s complex themes make it a challenging watch, with Virgo acknowledging the current trend of audiences preferring more easily digestible content.
Despite the uncertainties surrounding the film’s reception, Virgo’s underlying message in “Steal Away” is one of hope and perseverance. He emphasizes the importance of pushing forward and not giving up, drawing inspiration from the resilience of those who have come before us.