Both are extremes that rarely reflect what happens in real life.
But, with that in mind, telling stories about this is difficult.
You have to thread an impossible needle.
Image via Sundance
Arriving, he is met by his estranged father, La’Ron (John Earl Jelks).
Like Kaphar, Tarrell is an accomplished artist who speaks through his art and evocative images.
Something that offers the reader comfort.
Image via Roadside Attractions
When we meet Tarrell, we immediately know what kind of man he is.
A musician and performer, she has clearly set aside her own professional achievements to focus on the family.
Although the film is calledExhibiting Forgiveness, forgiveness is the most difficult task for Tarrell.
Image via Roadside Attractions
When he is finally reunited with his father, all of his worst memories bubble to the surface.
Kaphar never lets us believe that Tarrell is starting to forgive his father.
Everyone is firing on all cylinders, but it is Holland and Jelks who stand out with award-worthy performances.
Image via Roadside Attractions
This is felt both when Tarrell and La’Ron are on the screen together and when they are separate.
They may hurt the people that they love, but deep down, they’re a good person.
But Tarrell isn’t ready to forgive his father.
It’s an important moment that Kaphar emphasizes.
Time passes, but it doesn’t heal all the wounds.
Any wise adage whispered as advice to people is disproven.
Kaphar offers hope without condescendingly suggesting that all is well.
Similarly, just because La’Ron is sober now doesn’t mean he’s penitent for all his crimes.
He asserts that his “tough love” method made Tarrell the man he is today.
It’s classic abusive parent rhetoric.
The pain and suffering I caused you turned you into the success you are today.
The patrons completely miss the activism and message that comes with his art.
While he discusses this in the short, the film doesn’t linger on this.
Together, they struggle and learn that forgetting might be a greater challenge than forgiving.
Exhibiting Forgivenessis now playing in theaters.
Click below for showtimes.
