“The Fire Inside”: Director Rachel Morrison and cast

THE FIRE WITHIN

Section: Special Presentations, TIFF Next Wave Selects

Director: Rachel Morrison

Screenwriter: Barry Jenkins

Logline: Acclaimed cinematographer Rachel Morrison makes her directorial debut with this film about boxer Claressa Shields' true-life rise to the Olympics. It's a unique sports story that goes beyond the underdog's triumph and asks what comes next.

Panelists: Rachel Morrison, Ryan Destiny, Brian Tyree Henry

Premiere: 7 September

Key quote: “We're not just talking about a two-time gold medalist, but also about his heritage. To really tell a story that is not just the story of Flint, Michigan, we're also talking about the other side of the coin – the triumph of Flint, the resilience of Flint, the resilience of the people and families of Flint.” – Brian Tyree Henry

“I got to train with a boxing trainer named Rob Salley, who really became my partner in pre-shooting. For many months, it was really just him and me, just getting ready, so he was my support… I had an experience when I couldn't bring him on set and I thought, 'Oh, now I understand what a boxing trainer, their coach and the boxer actually go through when they can't have them there.' It's a very mental and emotional experience. You feel lost.” – Ryan Destiny

Deadline Studio at TIFF is sponsored by Final Draft