Andra Day, known for her powerful performances and Grammy-winning voice, reteams with director Lee Daniels for her latest project, The Deliverance. The film, a thriller inspired by true events, is set to be released in select theaters and on Netflix this month.
Day, who previously worked with Daniels on “The United States vs. Billie Holiday,” takes on the challenging role of Ebony, a mother struggling with generational trauma while protecting her children from literal and metaphorical demons.
“I absolutely love Ebony because she’s real. She’s a real girl, she’s a real black girl and she ultimately makes the most of what she has,” Day explained during an interview on “CBS Mornings.”
In Everyone’s First to Die, Ebony struggles with issues such as generational abuse, alcoholism and addiction while trying to move on from her past.
“She’s trying to be a great mom despite all of this,” Day said. “And now her mom has moved in with her, so she has to face that trauma all over again.”
Day emphasized that the film is not just about external horrors, but also about the internal struggles we all go through.
“The fact that the film is based on a true story really appealed to me because I love speculation. Some people may believe it, some people may not. I believe in the spiritual world,” Day said.
The emotional gravity of the film’s themes was palpable on set, where a preacher was present daily to pray with the cast and crew.
“These characters stay with you. They can certainly traumatize you,” Day said.
But Day said that with the strength of her faith, she was able to overcome the challenges of the role.
“Prayer reminded me that I have authority over these things.”
Although the film contains horror elements, both Day and Daniels describe it as a “faith-based thriller.” Day encouraged viewers not to avoid the film because of its genre, as it offers a deep, transformative journey.
“There are horror aspects, but it is also a thriller, a family drama and a religious-themed film,” she said.
“The Deliverance” will premiere in select theaters on Friday and will be available to stream on Netflix starting August 30.
