Gina Prince-Bythewood Reveals ‘Incredible’ Advice She Once Received from Rian Johnson

Gina Prince-Bythewood recently participated in a panel discussion with acclaimed director Rian Johnson at New York Comic Con, where they spoke about her upcoming film “Children of Blood and Bone.” The event, held on October 10 at the Javits Center, provided Prince-Bythewood an opportunity to reflect on the significant influence Johnson had on her approach to filmmaking.

During the conversation, Prince-Bythewood, who is renowned for her work on films such as “The Woman King,” described Johnson as one of her “favourite filmmakers” and someone who holds a dear place among her friends. She recounted how, upon accepting the daunting task of adapting the popular novel, she reached out to Johnson for guidance.

“I called Rian and said, ‘Can I sit with you for a couple of hours and just pick your brain?’” Prince-Bythewood shared. To her delight, Johnson agreed immediately, offering her invaluable advice that she continues to cherish.

Furthermore, Prince-Bythewood reminisced about a memorable experience she had while visiting Johnson during the production of “Star Wars.” She expressed gratitude for being allowed to sit in the cockpit of the Millennium Falcon, an iconic moment for any cinephile.

Reflecting on her conversation with Johnson, she recalled specific words of wisdom that helped her navigate the challenges of directing a project of such grand scale. “He told me, ‘It doesn’t matter how much money you have or how many toys you have, you have to tell a good story,’” she recounted. This advice resonated deeply with her, encouraging Prince-Bythewood to focus on character and relationships, rather than the overwhelming spectacle often associated with large productions.

“Children of Blood and Bone” is an adaptation of Tomi Adeyemi’s bestselling novel, first published in 2018. The film follows the journey of a young woman on a quest to restore magic to her homeland of Orïsha, as she rises against the oppressive rule of a brutal king. The cast features notable talents including Thuso Mbedu, Amandla Stenberg, Damson Idris, Tosin Cole, Cynthia Erivo, Lashana Lynch, and Viola Davis, all of whom bring depth to this ambitious project.

During the panel, Prince-Bythewood expressed her deep admiration for Adeyemi’s original work, stating that her passion for the story was a driving force behind her decision to helm the project. “Everything that was in those pages that Tomi wrote is everything that makes a great film,” she noted. She highlighted the rich tapestry of gods, creatures, magic, and heroic battles integral to the narrative, which she described as extraordinary.

However, it is noteworthy that Adeyemi has publicly distanced herself from the film in recent months. She described leaving the set feeling “hyperventilated and sobbing,” casting a shadow over her initial enthusiasm for the project. The tension between his adaptation and the author’s sentiments adds another layer of complexity to an already highly anticipated release.

Despite the challenges, Prince-Bythewood remains hopeful about the film’s potential impact. “Children of Blood and Bone” is slated for a theatrical release on January 15, 2027, inviting audiences to experience the vivid world that Adeyemi crafted alongside Prince-Bythewood’s creative vision.

As the conversation progressed during the panel, it became evident that the filmmaking journey is seldom straightforward. The bonds formed within the industry, coupled with the wisdom shared amongst directors, writers, and creators, can often illuminate the path ahead in overcoming obstacles.

As fans await the release of “Children of Blood and Bone,” Prince-Bythewood’s insights underline the importance of storytelling, community, and resilience within the cinematic landscape. The film is poised to capture the essence of its source material, and as Prince-Bythewood prepares to bring this magical tale to life, her collaboration with mentors like Johnson only enhances her passion for the craft.