Bessemer’s Andre Holland on What Made “Exhibiting Forgiveness” His Most Challenging Role

By Javacia HarrIs Bowser | For The Birmingham Times Andre Holland’s leading role as Tarrell in the film “Exhibiting Forgiveness” is one of the hardest things he’s ever done, he said. The film follows Tarrell, a Black artist on the path to success whose journey is derailed by an unexpected visit from his estranged father — a recovering addict who’s desperate to reconcile. The film, which opens in theaters nationwide today (October 18), was written and directed by artist Titus Kaphar and is loosely based on Kaphar’s life. To play the part authentically, Holland, a Bessemer native, had to learn how to paint. “I knew the painting would be a challenge because I’m not an artist by any stretch of imagination and I’m a bit colorblind too,” Holland said. “But I wanted to do it justice.” So, he worked with Kaphar to prepare. But Holland knew the most daunting part of the role would be the toll it would take emotionally.  “The emotional life of the character proved to be the most challenging part because it’s relentless,” said the critically acclaimed actor. “There’s not really a lot of levity or joy, especially with my character. It’s just things that get...