Clement Virgo approaches his latest film, “Steal Away,” with a mix of nerves and ambition, a departure from his acclaimed works like “The Wire” and “The Book of Negroes.” The Canadian director, along with his wife Tamara Faith Berger, crafted a futuristic retelling of a 15-year-old girl’s escape to Canada via the Underground Railroad, moving away from traditional narratives.
The film, set in a future where America’s past is reimagined as a fairytale, follows the story of two main characters, Cécile and Fanny. Virgo intentionally avoids depicting enslaved individuals directly, opting for a blend of genres like coming-of-age, thriller, horror, and Afrofuturism to weave a complex narrative.
“Steal Away” delves into themes of power dynamics and historical echoes, blurring the lines between past and present. Virgo’s aim is to explore the cyclical nature of progress and challenge the notion of permanent change. While the film’s intricate layers may pose challenges for some viewers, Virgo remains hopeful, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and pushing forward in uncertain times.