CFC Conversation: Celebrating Black Excellence in Film with Clement Virgo
September 9, 2025 | 7 – 8 pm
Cineplex Cinemas Varsity and VIP, Toronto
The Canadian Film Centre (CFC) invites film enthusiasts and industry insiders to an unmissable evening of dialogue and insight at the upcoming CFC Conversation: Black Excellence, featuring acclaimed filmmaker Clement Virgo alongside actors Mallori Johnson and Idrissa Sanogo Bamba. This free event, supported by presenting sponsor TD Bank Group, is set for Tuesday, September 9, 2025, at Cineplex Cinemas Varsity & VIP in Toronto, with doors opening at 6:30 p.m. and the conversation running from 7:00 to 8:00 p.m.
At the heart of the discussion is Virgo’s latest feature, Steal Away, a gripping, character-driven thriller exploring themes of power, identity, and legacy. The film, which premieres at TIFF 2025, has already generated significant anticipation for its compelling narrative and cinematic craftsmanship. Virgo’s work continues to bridge Canadian storytelling with global audiences, showcasing the depth and versatility of homegrown talent.
Clement Virgo: A Visionary Canadian Filmmaker
Clement Virgo is widely recognised as one of Canada’s leading filmmakers. He co-wrote and directed the critically acclaimed miniseries The Book of Negroes and the award-winning feature film Brother. Virgo’s impressive credits span both television and film, including The Wire (HBO), Greenleaf (OWN), Poor Boy’s Game, Lie with Me, and Rude. With Steal Away, Virgo continues his exploration of culturally resonant stories that challenge, provoke, and inspire.
Spotlight on Rising Talent
Starring in Steal Away is Mallori Johnson, a Juilliard graduate known for her leading role in the FX series Kindred. Johnson’s diverse screen credits include AppleTV+’s WeCrashed, The Other Zoey, and Hulu’s Genius: MLK/X, alongside acclaimed stage work in Roundabout’s The Refuge Plays. Sharing the screen is Idrissa Sanogo Bamba (Mansa Idrissa), a Mali-born, Toronto-raised actor recognised for his performances in The Boys (Amazon), Titans (Netflix), and The Expanse (Syfy). His recent work includes Director X’s Robyn Hood and the upcoming features The Well, Steal Away, and YA drama Shiver.
The conversation will be moderated by veteran actor and director Clark Johnson, celebrated for his roles in The Wire, Homicide: Life on the Street, and Alpha House, as well as his directing work on The Shield, The Walking Dead, and Homeland. Johnson brings decades of experience both in front of and behind the camera, guiding an engaging dialogue on creativity, representation, and the future of Canadian film.
Why You Should Attend
CFC Conversations provide a vital platform where Canadian cinema takes the mic, spotlighting both established creators and the next generation of storytellers. Attending signals support for stories that matter, champions Black excellence in film, and offers audiences an insider perspective on contemporary filmmaking. Admission is free, with a pay-what-you-can option to support future conversations, making it accessible to all who wish to be inspired by this extraordinary line-up.