In the world of cinema, the transition from playwright to filmmaker is often a challenging journey, but Aleshea Harris has proven that this path is not only navigable but can lead to extraordinary results. Her debut feature, 'Is God Is', is a testament to her unique artistic vision and has garnered critical acclaim, with a remarkable 97% freshness rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
'Is God Is' is an adaptation of Harris' own Pulitzer Prize-finalist play, and it brings to life a wild and captivating story of twin sisters, Racine and Anaia, on a quest for revenge against their abusive father. Inspired by ancient Greek tragedy and the Coen brothers' 'O Brother, Where Art Thou?', the film blends a classic revenge narrative with a distinctively brutal and humorous tone.
The Making of a Visionary Filmmaker
Harris' journey into filmmaking was not a conventional one. She didn't aspire to be a filmmaker in the traditional sense, having come from a theater background. However, her unique perspective and visual thinking set the stage for a successful transition.
A Brain Ready for the Challenge
Harris's background in visual art and theater equipped her with a brain primed for the challenges of filmmaking. She approached the adaptation with a keen eye for curating spaces, colors, and performances to achieve a mythic register. The result was a visually stunning and thematically rich film.
Financing and Production Challenges
Securing financing for 'Is God Is' was a process in itself. Harris navigated a bidding war, ultimately choosing to work with Amazon-MGM-Orion. The production team faced the challenge of trimming budgets and making compromises, such as reducing the presence of the boy twins in the story, despite the talented performances of Justen Ross and Xavier Mills.
Casting the Perfect Twins
Casting the roles of Racine and Anaia was a crucial aspect of the film's success. Harris sought actors who could portray twins with an intimate understanding of each other. She found her stars in Kara Young and Mallori Johnson, who not only had tremendous chemistry but also devoured the scenes with their co-stars, leaving no doubt that they were the perfect choices.
Visual Language and Cinematic Techniques
Harris's visual language in 'Is God Is' is a standout element. She creates a unique world that is three clicks to the left of reality, with subtle nods to ancient Greek tragedy and a Southern Gothic aesthetic. The framing, choreography, and exacting detail in the twins' communication add to the film's allure.
A World of Playful Realism
The film's world-building is a fascinating blend of reality and fantasy. Harris creates a realm where women with braided hair and clicking nails attend to a bedridden mother, a subtle reference to libation bearers from ancient Greek tragedy. This playful approach to reality adds depth and intrigue to the story.
Revenge: A Powerful Narrative Tool
Revenge is a powerful theme in 'Is God Is', and Harris uses it to explore the deep wounds and anger felt by Black women. She acknowledges the lack of representation of Black women in revenge narratives and aims to change that with her film. Harris draws inspiration from a diverse range of revenge stories, including 'Kill Bill', 'Our Father, the Devil', and 'Five Fingers for Marseilles'.
Sterling K. Brown: A Menacing Villain
Sterling K. Brown's portrayal of the abusive father is a highlight of the film. Harris worked with his charming persona, obscuring his face initially and building an epic presence through voice and subtlety. The reveal of his character is a masterclass in subversion, playing with the audience's expectations and the charm often associated with Brown.
Directing Action and Learning Curves
Harris's approach to directing action sequences was meticulous. She collaborated closely with the cinematographer and fight choreographer to ensure the sequences felt viable and true to the world she had created. The final sequence, in particular, is a masterclass in tension and timing, with the audience reacting strongly to the father's ultimate reveal.
A Baptism by Fire
Harris's debut as a filmmaker was a baptism by fire, and she surprised herself with her toughness and dedication to her work. She learned on the job, navigating the challenges of directing, location scouting, and bringing her unique style to the screen. The restraint and control she exhibited in 'Is God Is' are a testament to her growth as a filmmaker.
Conclusion
'Is God Is' is a remarkable debut, showcasing Aleshea Harris's unique artistic vision and her ability to translate her theater background into a powerful cinematic experience. With its blend of ancient influences, a Southern Gothic setting, and a powerful revenge narrative, the film is a must-watch for anyone seeking a wild and thought-provoking cinematic journey.
