Playwright Aleshea Harris makes a striking move into film with her adaptation of “Is God Is.” This acclaimed play takes us on a wild journey with twin sisters on a mission for revenge, driven by a troubled past and a call from their estranged mother.
Kara Young stars as Racine, the fiery twin, while Mallori Johnson plays Anaia, the more reserved sibling. The film opens with a nostalgic flashback, showing the girls tenderly resting on each other’s shoulders, emphasizing their deep bond.
Fast forward to today, and the twins live in a uniquely synced world. Their emotional connection is illustrated through clever subtitles, and Harris doesn’t shy away from the visible scars from their traumatic upbringing. Racine’s anger contrasts sharply with Anaia’s fear, highlighting their different responses to pain.
The narrative pivots when they receive a letter from their mother, Ruby, played by Vivica A. Fox. She’s gravely ill and recounts the night their father (Sterling K. Brown) inflicted lasting scars on their family. This trauma sets the sisters on a dark road trip to seek revenge against a man they’ve never known.
As they travel through a surreal landscape, they meet an array of quirky characters. They encounter Divine (Erika Alexander), a preacher entangled in their father’s past, and Chuck Hall (Mykelti Williamson), a lawyer who bears his own scars. These encounters deepen the narrative, exploring the twisted legacies of trauma and abuse.
Racine’s determination leads her to unleash her fury, confronting the cycle of violence their father started. Harris dives into the complexities of revenge, asking tough questions about the cost of retribution.
“Is God Is” isn’t a typical film full of cheers and laughter. Its noir atmosphere feels saturated with danger and despair. Harris’s direction is visually stunning, thanks to cinematographer Alexander Dynan. The film’s unique rhythm shines through, aided by an eerie score from Joseph Shirley and Moses Sumney, creating an unsettling yet compelling experience.
Kara Young’s performance deserves special mention. She captivates audiences with her energy and passion, marking her debut on the big screen. Johnson balances this intensity with a quiet strength, embodying the emotional core of the film.
The film’s blend of magical realism and gritty reality comes together to showcase Harris’s unique voice as a filmmaker. With her bold storytelling, she stands as a fresh new talent in cinema. It’s a remarkable experience you won’t want to miss.
For further insights, explore the impact of visual storytelling in films adapted from theatre through this article.
