Full Breakdown
Aleshea Harris Translates Stage to Screen in *Is God Is*
2/21/2026, 8:44:55 PM
Overview of the Film's Narrative
*Is God Is* marks the feature directorial debut of Aleshea Harris, who adapts her acclaimed stage play into a suspense thriller. The film follows twin sisters on a journey shaped by family trauma and a quest for revenge, blending elements of ancient storytelling with contemporary themes. The cast includes Kara Young and Mallori Johnson as the twins, alongside notable actors such as Janelle Monáe, Erika Alexander, Mykelti Williamson, Josiah Cross, Vivica A. Fox, and Sterling K. Brown. Produced by Tessa Thompson and others, the film is a significant step in Harris's career, showcasing her unique voice and vision.
Transition from Stage to Screen
Harris faced challenges in adapting her stage play to film, particularly in finding the right production partners after an initial collaboration fell through. She ultimately partnered with Tessa Thompson and others at Viva Maude to bring her screenplay to Orion Pictures and Amazon MGM Studios. Harris noted that the transition allowed for a broader exploration of the twins' journey, which originally moved from the Northeast to the South and then out West, a narrative that lent itself well to cinematic storytelling.
Creative Process and Inspirations
The film's plot was inspired by the concept of integrating ancient Greek tragedy with modern Black experiences. Harris expressed her desire to create a revenge tale that reflects her sensibilities and showcases Black characters in diverse genres. She emphasized the importance of breaking free from conventional storytelling boundaries, stating, "There’s no flavor of storytelling that’s off limits to Black people."
Directing Challenges and Learning Curve
Harris acknowledged the differences between directing for stage and screen, particularly in terms of language and audience engagement. In film, she aimed to let visuals convey emotions rather than relying heavily on dialogue, a common practice in theater. She also highlighted the learning curve involved in understanding how to direct actors for the camera, noting that the intimacy and proximity required in film differ significantly from live performances.
Official Statements & Responses
In discussing her adaptation process, Harris remarked on the importance of finding the right partners and articulating her vision effectively. She stated, "It was a journey of finding the right partners and getting lots of work in articulating what my vision was from the stage to the screen." Additionally, she shared insights from Sterling K. Brown, who advised her on managing takes efficiently during filming, which she found invaluable given the tight production schedule.
Criticism & Opposition
While the film has generated excitement, some critics may question the effectiveness of adapting a stage play into a film format, particularly regarding the preservation of the original's emotional depth. However, Harris's commitment to exploring new storytelling avenues may mitigate these concerns.
Verbatim Quotes
- “So there’s something that I feel like I’m in new territory or I don’t see us there enough or in my way.” — Aleshea Harris, Filmmaker
- “But it was just a journey of finding the right partners and getting lots of work in articulating what my vision was from the stage to the screen.” — Aleshea Harris, Filmmaker
- “if your takes are getting in the double digits, it’s too many takes.” — Sterling K. Brown, Actor
*Is God Is* represents a significant cultural moment, blending genres and narratives while showcasing the talents of Black filmmakers and actors. As Harris continues to navigate her directorial journey, the film stands as a testament to her vision and creativity.
