Cynthia Erivo's latest film, ‘Prima Facie,’ offers a raw look at sexual assault, marking her first project after the ‘Wicked’ films. Directed by Susanna White, the film premieres at TIFF.
Cynthia Erivo stars in ‘Prima Facie,’ which premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF), marking her first feature film since the ‘Wicked’ movies. Directed by Susanna White, the film presents a gripping examination of the aftermath of sexual assault, showcasing a nuanced portrayal of trauma and recovery.
In her first interview concerning the project, Erivo, a three-time Oscar nominee and Tony Award winner, expressed the intensity of preparing for the role of Tessa, a barrister whose life is turned upside down following an assault by a colleague. As reported by The Hollywood Reporter, Erivo mentioned that portraying such a complex character required her to delve deep into dark emotional territory: "I would go too far and it would be hard to come back." To navigate these challenging themes, she collaborated closely with intimacy coordinator Lizzy Talbot and engaged a therapist throughout the filming process, ensuring she had the necessary support.
‘Prima Facie’ adapts Suzie Miller’s acclaimed play, bringing new dimensions to the character of Tessa and her experiences. The film expands on the original monologue format of the play, allowing for a cinematic exploration of Tessa’s relationships and emotional landscape. This deepened narrative perspective highlights the challenges faced by women in a male-dominated legal system.
Both White and Miller aimed to create a dynamic film that resonates with audiences, especially in light of contemporary discussions surrounding women's rights and the treatment of sexual assault cases in the legal system.
Erivo’s portrayal required her to navigate significant emotional challenges, especially during intense scenes that delve into Tessa’s trauma. According to Erivo, her experiences during filming often left her feeling "sick and angry," illuminating the psychological toll of such a demanding role. The director, White, reflected on the necessity of having a brave actor to take on this complex narrative, emphasizing the film's potential to resonate with viewers facing similar adversities.
‘Prima Facie’ is set to premiere without a U.S. distributor. However, Sony Pictures has secured international rights, including distribution in the UK. White and Miller expressed hope that the film will find a U.S. distributor that understands the significant social issues it addresses, particularly in the context of evolving women's rights narratives and the legal implications of sexual assault.
Cynthia Erivo's performance in ‘Prima Facie’ promises to challenge and engage audiences with its raw exploration of a critical social issue. With TIFF as the launchpad, the film has the potential to spark important conversations about the justice system's relation to sexual assault and women's rights, aligning closely with societal discussions surrounding these topics.
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