Antwone Fisher, Denzel Washington's directorial debut, makes its world premiere as a gala presentation at the 27th Toronto International Film Festival.

In addition to newcomer Derek Luke in the title role, Antwone Fisher stars Joy Bryant, Salli Richardson and the Academy Award-winning Washington.

Antwone Fisher is based on the true story of Antwone Fisher, a former sailor who endured an abusive upbringing and went on to become a sought-after Hollywood screenwriter and wrote a book (Finding Fish) about his life, upon which the film is based.

A sailor with an explosive attitude, Fisher (Derek Luke) is ordered to see a naval psychiatrist (Denzel Washington) about his volatile temper. With the support of the doctor, who becomes a father figure, and a woman (Joy Bryant) from whom he learns how to love, Fisher makes a courageous journey home to confront the family that abandoned him.

Antwone Fisher is a Fox Searchlight Pictures, produced by Todd Black, Randa Haines and Denzel Washington, and executive produced by Nancy Paloian.

The festival runs September 5-14.