Is God Is, the 2026 feature directorial debut from Aleshea Harris, arrives in theaters May 15 with a tone that is immediately clear and unapologetically its own. Adapted from her award-winning play, the film establishes its identity right out of the gate. The build sets the tone, the music locks in the vibe and from that moment forward, you understand exactly what kind of experience you’re stepping into.
This is not just a revenge story. It’s a stylized, culturally rich and emotionally charged journey rooted in trauma, identity and sisterhood. Every creative choice, from the dialogue to the visual language, reinforces that this film is operating in its own lane.
At the center of the story are twin sisters Racine and Anaia, played by Kara Young and Mallori Johnson. Their connection is one of the film’s strongest elements, and it goes beyond traditional dialogue. These two move as one, communicating in ways that feel almost instinctive, at times even nonverbal. There’s a bond here that feels unbreakable, and the film makes it clear early on that these sisters do not play about each other. Even something as simple as someone disrespecting one of them can spark tension instantly.
Kara Young’s Racine is the more aggressive of the two, someone who is fully about that life and doesn’t hesitate when action is required. Mallori Johnson’s Anaia, on the other hand, is still navigating her identity, confidence and place in the world. That contrast becomes essential to the emotional core of the film, giving their journey both balance and depth. Together, they are absolutely compelling, and Kara Young in particular feels like a name audiences should be paying very close attention to moving forward.
The film’s cultural voice is undeniable. From the dialogue to the references embedded throughout, Is God Is feels deeply rooted in its identity. It doesn’t water itself down or try to fit into a traditional mold. Instead, it leans fully into its tone, delivering a script that feels rhythmic, intentional and at times almost poetic. This is a film that knows exactly what it wants to say and how it wants to say it.
Visually, the film continues that strong sense of identity. The use of color filters, particularly in flashback moments, helps separate timelines while also enhancing the emotional weight of those scenes. The score and music choices further elevate the experience, reinforcing the film’s vibe and keeping the energy consistent throughout. It’s stylish, it’s artistic and it feels like a filmmaker with a clear vision behind the camera.
When it comes to violence, the film does not hold back. It is bloody and brutal, but importantly, it never feels unnecessary. The violence is applied, purposeful and tied directly to the story being told. This is revenge driven by pain, trauma and a need for closure, and every action taken reflects that.
Vivica A. Fox plays the twins’ mother, a character they refer to as God, and that alone adds a mythic layer to the story. Her presence drives the narrative forward, setting the twins on their path and shaping the emotional stakes of their journey.
Sterling K. Brown delivers one of the film’s most surprising performances as the twins’ father. For much of the film, his presence is more felt than seen, building anticipation for his eventual reveal. When he does fully step into the spotlight in the third act, it lands in a major way. This is a version of Sterling K. Brown audiences haven’t seen before. He is a menace, a true monster within the context of the story, and his performance adds a powerful layer to the film’s central conflict.
Supporting performances from Janelle Monáe and Erika Alexander add real texture to the world, each bringing a distinct energy that helps shape the sisters’ journey. Monáe, even in limited screen time, shines in the way you know she can, making every moment count with a presence that lingers beyond her scenes. Meanwhile, Alexander delivers one of the film’s most unexpectedly entertaining pockets as Divine the Healer, leaning fully into the character’s spiritual authority and comedic edge. It’s the kind of performance where you almost believe this could be a real side profession for her, and it adds a unique layer of personality and levity to the film’s heavier themes.
Aleshea Harris proves here that she is a filmmaker to watch. Coming from an acclaimed background in theater, that influence is felt throughout the film’s structure and storytelling approach. The narrative is bold, sometimes unconventional, and not afraid to take risks. There’s a theatrical edge to the dialogue, but it’s paired with a cinematic execution that shows real promise for future projects.
This film feels like a statement. It’s a showcase of what Black creators can bring to genre storytelling when given the space to fully execute original ideas. It blends revenge, mythology, identity and culture into something that stands out in a crowded landscape.
That said, the film does not fully stick the landing. After such a strong and chaotic build, the ending feels a bit flat from a narrative perspective. While the message around self-discovery, bravery and moving forward from trauma comes through clearly, the payoff doesn’t quite match the intensity of everything leading up to it. Even the title itself leaves room for interpretation in a way that doesn’t fully connect.
Still, the journey remains compelling.
Game Over? Not Even Close
Is God Is is bold, brutal and unapologetically stylish. Driven by powerful performances, a strong cultural voice and a clear artistic vision, the film delivers a revenge story that feels fresh and distinct. While the ending may not fully land, the performances, particularly from Kara Young, and the film’s overall execution make it a memorable experience.
Is God Is opens in theaters May 15, 2026.
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I’m a dedicated aficionado of all things movies, pop culture, and entertainment. With a passion for storytelling and a love for the silver screen, I’m constantly immersed in the world of cinema, exploring new releases, classics, and hidden gems alike. As a fervent advocate for the power of film to inspire, entertain, and provoke thought, I enjoy sharing my insights, reviews, and recommendations with fellow enthusiasts.