“For if you forgive other people when they sin against you, your father will also forgive you- Matthew 6:14-15”
This is the heart of the latest film about the realistic story about domestic violence and what is does in the aftermath of a broken family, especially when the one doing the abuse suddenly turns and tries to make amends. The question is though, if it is too late to reconcile.
The powerful film stars an equally power cast including Selma’s Andre Holland, who does an exceptional job of capturing the emotions of a young father, trying to raise his own son while confronted by his estranged father who just wants a second chance. It’s enough to send audiences in a fit of rage just watching Holland go through the emotional scenes.
Supporting Holland, Blue Bloods’ John Earl Jelks and King Richard’s Aunjanue Ellis-Taylor, who equally do an exceptional job given tough story material. Additionally, Christianity shines through in this unique storyline especially in one scene where Ellis-Taylor blatantly quotes Matthew 6:14-15 to Holland in an effort to convince forgiveness of her son toward his father.
Finally, the film uses a mixture of paintings, combined with a younger version of Holland as it showcases the abuse that he ultimately went through. The art, in a sense was meant to be a healing mechanism as art tends to be in real life situations.
All in all, at an hour and 57 minutes, Exhibiting Forgiveness is a pure tale that thoroughly ventures through all aspects of what it truly takes to forgive. As Holland quotes at the end, “He can forgive, but he can’t forget.” It’s a message that rings out for all who are victims of domestic abuse situations.
The powerful film came out in theaters October 18th 2024 and is currently playing in select theaters near you.