Clement Virgo, known for his work on iconic series like “The Wire” and the acclaimed adaptation of “The Book of Negroes,” expresses nervousness about the reception of his latest film, “Steal Away,” hitting theaters this Friday. Virgo, alongside his wife Tamara Faith Berger, crafted a futuristic retelling of a 15-year-old girl’s journey to Canada via the Underground Railroad. Unlike “Steal Away Home,” set in the 19th century, “Steal Away” presents a futuristic reinterpretation of America’s past as a fairy tale.
The film avoids direct depictions of enslaved individuals, focusing on the story of Cécile and Fanny in a unique setting. Themes of coming-of-age, thriller, horror, and Afrofuturism converge in this kaleidoscopic narrative. Virgo deliberately blurs time periods and power dynamics to create a modern yet ambiguous world. He aims to draw parallels between historical events and contemporary societal challenges.
“Steal Away” also marks a departure in Virgo’s perspective, reflecting on the complexities of progress and societal attitudes towards immigration. The film’s intricate layers prompt contemplation on the permanence of progress. While Virgo acknowledges the film’s challenging narrative, he remains hopeful about inspiring positive change for the future.
Through “Steal Away,” Virgo navigates profound questions about history, progress, and resilience, urging audiences to embrace hope and perseverance for a better tomorrow.