**”Is God Is”: A Cinematic Celebration of Mother’s Day and Revenge**
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The highly anticipated film “Is God Is,” directed by Aleshea Harris, is set to make its theatrical debut on May 15. The movie features a talented cast, including Kara Young, Mallori Johnson, Vivica A. Fox, Erika Alexander, and Sterling K. Brown. This revenge thriller is adapted from Harris’s acclaimed Off-Broadway play, promising a unique viewing experience that resonates with both cinematic fans and those seeking a surprising twist on Mother’s Day themes.
At the recent premiere in New York on April 27, the cast shared their excitement for the film while also acknowledging the heartfelt significance of celebrating mothers and caregivers during this time of year. With Mother’s Day approaching on May 10, the film’s themes of familial bonds and vengeance take on a profound layer of meaning. Vivica A. Fox, who portrays the character known as God in the film, expresses her well-wishes to mothers everywhere, urging them to enjoy the film and take some time for themselves. “To all the mothers and our caregivers out there,” said Fox, “I’m wishing you all a very happy and blessed Mother’s Day. Enjoy. We love y’all.”
The narrative of “Is God Is” revolves around twin sisters Racine and Anaia, portrayed by Kara Young and Mallori Johnson, respectively. Raised in an abusive environment, the sisters are confronted with a dark quest delivered by their mother to avenge the wrongs inflicted upon them by their father. Fox’s character, referred to as God, boldly instructs them to “make your Daddy dead. Real dead.” This provocative premise underscores the film’s exploration of trauma, resilience, and the complex relationships between mothers and their children.
According to Young, the intertwining themes of motherhood and vengeance resonate deeply within her community. She expressed gratitude towards the mothers who play a significant role in nurturing and supporting others. “If we have an opportunity to be loved by you, we are a collective blessed,” she stated, emphasising the vital role that mothers and caregivers play in society.
Erika Alexander, another prominent cast member, also took the time to honour mothers ahead of the holiday. Alexander referred to her own mother, Sammie “Susu” Alexander, as her “North Star,” remarking that her success and identity stem from her mother’s influence. “Everything that I am is because of you,” she articulated during the premiere, highlighting the personal connections that enrich the film’s storyline.
The event was not only a celebration of the film but also an occasion for familial bonding, as attendees included various cast members and their loved ones. Janelle Monáe, another star of the film, attended the premiere alongside her mother, Janet Robinson, reflecting the central theme of family that runs through both the film and its promotional events.
Harris’s adaptation of her own work has been anticipated since its success on the stage, with the film’s production supported by notable figures such as Orion Pictures and Janicza Bravo. The move from theatre to film presents a new layer for Harris’s narrative, allowing audience members to experience her powerful storytelling through a cinematic lens.
As “Is God Is” gears up for its release, the cast is hopeful that audiences will connect with its multifaceted themes. The film, while exploring darker elements of revenge, ultimately serves as a reminder of strength, resilience, and the strength of maternal figures. They encourage viewers, especially mothers, to join in this cinematic journey and embrace the thrilling yet deeply emotional experience that the film promises to deliver.
With its official release just around the corner, “Is God Is” aims to capture not only the thrill of its revenge-driven plot but also to honour the unwavering spirit of mothers and caregivers everywhere. The cast is eager to see how their work resonates with audiences, particularly during this time of reflection and celebration of motherhood.