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Cynthia Erivo is earning praise for her performance in her latest crime drama film, directed by Susanna White. While the critics remain divided over the film, its overwhelming response at TIFF could change Erivo’s Oscar prospects.

The screen adaptation of Suzie Miller’s acclaimed stage play, First Facehad its world premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival on September 13, 2026. The audience gave Erivo and the filmmakers a standing ovation, according to Variety. Erivo’s performance took the spotlight, with the adaptation giving her a demanding role previously played on stage by Jodie Comer. Comer famously won both an Olivier Award and a Tony Award for the solo performance.

Deadline‘s Pete Hammond called the 39-year-old a “fine dramatic actor and does what she can with the ambiguity of a role where the legal chairs are suddenly shuffled.” However, the review noted the film’s more literal approach means “something may have gotten lost in translation.”

The Hollywood Reporter‘s Caryn James described the adaptation as “a near-total muddle,” with “some stunning supporting performances.” The review praised the English actress’ performance for displaying the characters’ shifting emotions “eloquently.”

The Guardian‘s Richard Lawson also remained similarly critical of the adaptation while acknowledging Erivo’s commitment. His review described her performance as having “focused rigor and yet she oddly doesn’t have all that much to play.”

Despite receiving mixed reviews, the critics have repeatedly singled out the Wicked star. Erivo previously received two Academy Award nominations for Harriet and Wicked, in 2020 and 2025, respectively.

What is Cynthia Erivo’s Prima Facie movie about?

The movie tells the story of a London criminal lawyer who represents people accused of sexual assault. After drinking and passing out in her own apartment, she is sexually assaulted by a colleague she had previously made out with. She eventually finds herself trapped in the legal system, navigating her own case from the victim’s stand.

The film’s synopsis, per IMDbreads, “Follows Tessa, an ambitious defense lawyer. She expertly represents her clients, including those who are accused of sexual assault. However, she finds out that the law does not provide justice after being raped by a coworker.”

The film does not have an official theatrical release date yet.