A new chapter in cinema: Rachel Morrison’s directorial debut with ‘The Fire Inside’
Stepping into the director’s chair
For Rachel Morrison, transitioning from a celebrated cinematographer to a director was both a thrilling and daunting experience. Her feature directorial debut, The Fire Inside, tells the compelling story of boxer Claressa Shields, the first American woman to win an Olympic gold medal in boxing. The pressure to do justice to Shields’ story was immense, but the opportunity to oversee a project from start to finish was a dream come true for Morrison.
“This is a dream, to actually get to see something through from beginning to end,” Morrison shared. “As a cinematographer, I’m such an integral part of the prep and the production process, but then I hand it off. Now as a director, to be part of the score, be part of the post, be part of the edit, and really have a vision from beginning to end, I’m just so excited to bring it to life.”
Bringing Claressa Shields’ story to life
The Fire Inside chronicles Shields’ journey from her challenging upbringing in Flint, Michigan, to her triumphant moment on the Olympic stage. The film stars Ryan Destiny as Shields and Brian Tyree Henry in a supporting role. Destiny’s path to landing the role was serendipitous, marked by a casual approach that ultimately worked in her favor.
“I think it really helped in the end because I feel like it made me let go a little bit,” Destiny reflected. “You just get more into the project as the process keeps going. And you get a callback and you actually get the part and I’m like, ‘Oh my god, I’m really doing this.'”
Interestingly, both Destiny and Shields share the same age and hail from Michigan, adding a layer of authenticity to Destiny’s portrayal. Preparing for the role alongside Shields was a surreal experience for Destiny, but it also provided invaluable insights.
“She would ask me if I had ever been in a fight before, that was one of the first questions she ever asked me. And I was like, ‘Girl, absolutely not,'” Destiny recounted. “I think for a split second that scared her, but I think throughout the rest of the process she was like, ‘Oh, OK. This is what it is.’ And I’m so happy that afterward too, [when she saw] the film, she absolutely loved it.”
A story that needed to be told
Brian Tyree Henry was drawn to the project not only because of the opportunity to work with Destiny and Morrison but also due to his frustration that Shields’ story was not more widely known.
“Here you have this two-time gold medalist, female, black boxer from Flint, Mich., that isn’t getting the front covers or isn’t being heralded as one of the greatest champs of all time. And so for me, it started upsetting, and I really wanted to make sure that we told the story in a way that felt genuine and felt true to her, which I knew we were because Rachel was attached to it,” Henry explained. “And the second part was Ryan. Immediately when I saw she was a part of it I was incredibly excited.”
The journey from behind the camera to the director’s chair
Morrison’s transition from cinematographer to director is a testament to her versatility and passion for storytelling. As a cinematographer, she played a crucial role in the visual storytelling of numerous films, but directing allowed her to shape the narrative in its entirety. This holistic involvement in the filmmaking process, from pre-production to post-production, enabled her to bring a cohesive vision to The Fire Inside.
For cinema enthusiasts, Morrison’s journey is a fascinating case study in the evolution of a filmmaker. Her ability to seamlessly transition between roles within the industry highlights the importance of versatility and a deep understanding of the craft. For those aspiring to work in film, Morrison’s career trajectory serves as an inspiring example of how dedication and passion can lead to new and exciting opportunities.
Watch the trailer
For those eager to dive into the world of The Fire Inside, you can watch the trailer here.
Final thoughts
The Fire Inside is more than just a biographical film; it’s a celebration of resilience, determination, and the indomitable spirit of Claressa Shields. Through Morrison’s direction, Destiny’s portrayal, and Henry’s support, the film brings to light a story that deserves to be told and celebrated. For fans of cinema, this film is a must-watch, offering a powerful narrative and a glimpse into the life of a true champion.
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