Orion Pictures, under Amazon MGM Studios, is bringing Aleshea Harris’ explosive stage play Is God Is to the big screen in a high-profile adaptation slated for release on May 15, 2026. The film marks Harris’ feature directorial debut and promises to be a bold, genre-defying entry in next summer’s cinematic lineup.
A Vengeful Odyssey
The story centers on twin sisters Racine and Anaia, played by Kara Young (Virgo) and Mallori Johnson (Kindred), who were left with disfiguring burn scars after a childhood fire. Living a bleak existence in the Northeast, their lives are upended when they discover their mother, known only as “She” or “God”, is alive. She sends them on a mission to the California desert to confront and exact revenge on the man responsible for their trauma: their father.
Blending Afropunk aesthetics with spaghetti western grit, Is God Is is a visceral revenge tale that explores themes of justice, identity, and the legacy of violence. The film’s tone and visual ambition were highlighted during exhibitor presentations earlier this year, positioning it as a daring counterprogramming choice amid blockbuster-heavy summer schedules.
Star-Studded Cast & Creative Team
The cast includes:
– Sterling K. Brown
– Vivica A. Fox
– Janelle Monáe
– Erika Alexander
– Mykelti Williamson
– Josiah Cross
Behind the scenes, the film is produced by Viva Maude’s Tessa Thompson and Kishori Rajan, Lindens’ Riva Marker, CYRK’s Janicza Bravo, and Harris herself. Executive producers include Stacy O’Neil, Nicole King, and Kenneth Yu.
From Stage to Screen
Originally premiering Off-Broadway in 2018 at Soho Rep, Is God Is won multiple Obie Awards and the prestigious Relentless Award from the American Playwriting Foundation. Its raw emotional power and genre-bending style quickly attracted Hollywood interest, with Harris’ screenplay adaptation now anchoring Orion’s prestige slate.
A Bold Summer Bet
With its release timed just ahead of the Cannes Film Festival, Is God Is enters a competitive summer corridor alongside tentpoles like Disney’s Moana (July 10), Nolan’s The Odyssey (July 17), and Spider-Man: Brand New Day (July 31). Yet its unique voice and thematic depth could make it a breakout hit—and a serious contender come awards season.
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