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 vision and talent, earning critical acclaim and a 97% freshness rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
Harris, a Pulitzer Prize finalist for her original play, brings a fresh and audacious cinematic language to the screen, blending ancient Greek tragedy with the Coen brothers' quirky humor. The film tells the story of twin sisters, Racine and Anaia, on a quest for revenge against their abusive father, a narrative that delves into the bloody and brutally honest world of familial trauma.
The Making of a Visionary Filmmaker
Harris's journey into filmmaking was not a typical 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.
"When I write, I think in pictures. I wanted to bring that visual language into the movie, but it needed to be organic." - Aleshea Harris
The process of adapting her play for the screen was a challenging one, requiring Harris to curate every aspect, from the spaces and colors to the performances, to achieve a mythic register. Despite the challenges, Harris's attention to detail paid off, resulting in a film that captivated audiences and critics alike.
Casting Chemistry
One of the film's standout features is the incredible chemistry between the twin sisters, played by Kara Young and Mallori Johnson. Harris's casting process was meticulous, ensuring that the actors not only had the talent but also the ability to portray twins with an intimate understanding of each other.
"I needed them to be in scenes with each other. When I put them together, they matched, plus they had tremendous chemistry their first time in a Zoom room." - Aleshea Harris
The visual language between the twins, including their wordless communication and exacting framing, adds another layer of depth to their characters, creating a unique and captivating dynamic on screen.
A Unique Visual Language
Harris's visual style is a key element of 'Is God Is'. Inspired by the Coen brothers' 'O Brother, Where Art Thou?', she crafted a world that is three clicks to the left of reality, a Southern Gothic realm with a playful twist. The use of portrait framing, spinning characters, and subtle details like the clicking nails of the libation bearers, adds a layer of intrigue and mystery to the film.
"I was thinking about playful ways to think about what's real and what's not." - Aleshea Harris
Revenge and Its Complexities
The theme of revenge is a central pillar of the film, and Harris approaches it with a unique perspective. She explores the deep wounds and anger of Black women, using the revenge narrative as a vehicle to resonate with audiences on a deeper level.
"I'm capitalizing on my sense that there are a lot of things that I think we have to be angry about as Black women." - Aleshea Harris
Harris's personal connection to the story and her understanding of the complexities of revenge make 'Is God Is' a powerful and thought-provoking film.
A Learning Curve and a Bright Future
Despite her success, Harris remains humble and eager to learn. She acknowledges the steep learning curve of directing, especially when it comes to action sequences, but her dedication and toughness shine through.
"Everything is a baptism by fire, David. Everything is learning for me." - Aleshea Harris
'Is God Is' is a remarkable debut, showcasing Harris's talent and potential. With her unique visual style, thoughtful storytelling, and bold approach to complex themes, Harris has established herself as a filmmaker to watch.
