In the vibrant mosaic of New York City’s artistic landscape, Aleshea Harris’s transition from acclaimed playwright to filmmaker marks a striking new chapter. Her debut film, ‘Is God Is,’ bursts onto the scene with raw energy and unflinching emotion, anchored by powerhouse performances from Kara Young and Mallori Johnson as twin sisters on a relentless quest for revenge. The film’s gritty narrative and visceral style reflect a city that thrives on resilience and reinvention.
Set against a backdrop that feels both mythic and disturbingly real, Harris’s screenplay explores themes of trauma, justice, and the complexities of sisterhood. Young and Johnson deliver performances that are both fierce and deeply nuanced, capturing the fractured bond between the twins as they navigate a world scarred by violence and betrayal. Their journey is as much about survival as it is about reclaiming agency in a society that often marginalizes Black women.
The film’s visual language is as striking as its storytelling, with cinematography that evokes both the mythological and the contemporary urban experience. Harris’s direction harnesses the kinetic energy of New York’s streets and the simmering tension of family strife, creating a cinematic experience that is both confrontational and cathartic. ‘Is God Is’ stands out not only for its narrative ambition but also for its bold aesthetic choices that challenge conventional storytelling.
In a city renowned for nurturing new theater and film, Harris’s work occupies a vital space, pushing conversations around race, gender, and violence into new artistic territories. ‘Is God Is’ is more than just a revenge story; it’s a fierce declaration of survival and identity, resonating deeply with New Yorkers and audiences worldwide who grapple with the fires of their own histories and hopes.
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