TIFF Highlights Halle Berry's Journey, with Directorial Debut "Bruised"

It's TIFF season in Toronto, and although the regular red carpet affairs and crowds of photographers and film lovers won't be a common sight on King Street this year, it is refreshing to see and hear the usual buzz about upcoming events, movies, and features. Friday evening's "Conversation With... Halle Berry" was an engaging virtual discussion between Toronto journalist Amanda Parris and the beloved Academy Award-winning actress, as Halle spoke about her directorial debut film "Bruised" premiering Saturday night at the Festival, and how special moments throughout her 30-year career have prepared her for this monumental step.

The conversation was one of many in TIFF's interview series, presented online at tiff.net. Through their "Share Her Journey" initiative, TIFF has also committed to five years of "increased participation, skills, and opportunities" for woman in all areas of film production. This year, 45% of the festival's feature films are directed, co-directed, or created by women.

Halle, one of film's favourite leading ladies, has been a memorable on-screen artist ever since her first appearance, in Jungle Fever (1991). Along with her Oscar-wining performance in Monster's Ball, and countless other classic films and impressionable moments along the way, it was great to learn a few new anecdotes within the very natural and engaging conversation, led by Amanda Parris.

Viewers learned that Halle initially desired a career in journalism, eager to travel the world, and share news...but given her successful path as an actress, she has also graciously learned how to accept life's events, changes, and opportunities as they come and let the various moments lead her. Praising writer/director Spike Lee for trusting her with her breakthrough role in Jungle Fever, she was proud to have chosen a character that would highlight her acting acumen from the beginning. Halle made it apparent that in spite of her physical beauty, she was highly skilled, and could take on any persona... and portray a range of characters. Exceptionally well.

"I have always known that I'm more than the shell I walk around in," said Halle, who has carefully selected roles and characters that are full of substance, with unique stories to tell. Even with her character Nisi in 1997's "B.A.P.S.," an underground fan favourite.

While her character Angela in Boomerang was sweet, quotable, and lovable, Halle admitted that she is often drawn to characters that are fractured, noting that they speak to her own "brokenness," in many ways, and often reflect her own life experiences.

Amanda and many other fans have admittedly watched Halle's acceptance speeches, movies, and interviews repeatedly, it was interesting to learn that Halle barely watches her on-screen performances, that so many of us were rewinding obsessively in the 90's and beyond. Aside from the pre-press junket screenings, and the premier night viewings...Halle confessed that she never watches her performances again. Now that she is directing and starring in the film "Bruised," she was challenged to have to focus on herself post-production, from the director's chair.

Even without watching her performances, Halle is definitely aware that her presence and actions over the years have been instrumental in the lives of many women, creatives, and film professionals observing her journey with admiration. She recognized that her Oscar win truly mattered to many of her supporters, and helped to shift the ways in which they thought about what they could achieve. Despite her historic 2002 Academy Award for Best Actress, she did note that reflecting on the 20 years that followed were "heartbreaking," where equity and inclusion in film were concerned.

"I've tried really hard not to let that award define me," said Halle, explaining that while the recognition was great, "there's an expectation that sits on you." She described the aftermath as difficult to manoeuvre, because there isn't a set formula to achieving Hollywood success. Rather than try to repeat her award-winning accolades, she instead put her energy into being brave, fearless, and making her own unique choices as an actress. There wasn't a blueprint to follow, and she definitely wasn't looking for one.

"I live and die on my own decisions," she said, making all efforts to stay true to herself and each and every role she has chosen throughout her career. "I know that things are changing [now], and I'm really proud to be a part of the evolution."

Since launching her production company 606 Films in 2014, Halle has been committed to encouraging and supporting the reflective stories that need to be told. Her film "Bruised" will screen at TIFF on Saturday, September 12 as a work-in-progress. It's a story about a former MMA fighter looking to regain custody of her son while reviving her career. Berry stars as Jackie, telling the story of an athlete's redemption and a mother fighting to restore her own dignity. 

"I love a story about redemption," said Halle. "I want to see the human spirit soar."

The film also features Toronto native Shamier Anderson, a former TIFF Rising Star, and young Danny Boyd Jr. who plays her six-year-old son Manny in the film (Halle noted he is definitely "one to watch for"). She expressed her gratitude to the Festival, while speaking passionately about her project, offering special thanks to TIFF co-head Cameron Bailey. Halle credited the support of TIFF with increasing the film's profile, which eventually let to her Netflix deal, announced on Friday--a $19M deal for worldwide rights.

"To get it bought at this early stage--it's a thrill," said Halle, of the Netflix news.

As Amanda reviewed Halle's significant body of work, and mentioned moments and movies that were of particular impact to her, Halle mentioned that through each film she learned an important lesson. Something valuable, and all of her experiences were necessary--unable to name a favourite film, she likened her movies to children, where it would be impossible to name a favourite. All of her pieces of work were sacred, and held individual value. "They've all been a part of my journey, and all really necessary," said Halle of the movies in her repertoire.

Her advice to Black women in film and the arts, hoping to follow in her footsteps of influence and inspiration:

"Imagine your own stories; don't be afraid...create your own stories...create it for yourself; believe in the strength of your stories."

"Star clear in your vision...make your stories as authentic and real as you possibly can."

Allow yourself to be "led by strength and knowledge, not fear."

"Bruised" can be viewed at the debut screening on Saturday, September 12 online after 6 p.m. at Bell Digital Cinema. To view in-person at the Visa Skyline Drive-in at CityView, the film is available Saturday, September 12 at 7:45pm, and Friday, September 18 at 9:00pm.

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Written by Stacey Marie Robinson for Kya Publishing's blog.