Aleshea Harris Stuns with Bold Is God Is Film Adaptation
A bold new film adaptation of Is God Is has hit cinemas, earning high praise from critics and viewers alike. Originally a critically acclaimed off-Broadway play, the story follows twin sisters on a brutal quest for revenge. Writer and first-time director Aleshea Harris brings her dark, genre-blending vision to the screen.
Is God Is began as a play in 2018, where it quickly gained attention for its raw intensity and unique style. Harris never expected it to be staged, let alone turned into a film. Inspired by Kill Bill and ancient Greek tragedies, she crafted a story about Racine the Rough One and Anaia the Quiet One—twin sisters scarred by their father’s violence.
The film stars Kara Young and Mallori Johnson as the vengeful twins, with Sterling K. Brown playing their father, the man who set their mother on fire. Harris cast Brown deliberately, wanting to surprise audiences and add depth to the character. Visually, the film sits ‘three clicks to the left of centre’, mixing Spaghetti Westerns, Southern gothic, and fairy-tale elements. Encouraged by producer Janicza Bravo and playwright Jeremy O. Harris, Aleshea Harris stepped behind the camera for the first time. The result is a striking, genre-defying work that stays true to the play’s explosive energy.
The film is now showing in theatres, where it has matched the play’s early success. Critics and audiences have responded warmly to its bold storytelling and visual flair. Harris’ directorial debut marks a fearless expansion of her original vision.
