In the world of cinema, where the line between stage and screen often blurs, Aleshea Harris has emerged as a force to be reckoned with. Her directorial debut, 'Is God Is', has not only garnered critical acclaim but has also sparked intense reactions from audiences, leaving them 'yelling' in theaters. This article delves into the mind of the creator, exploring the unique vision and personal journey that has shaped this remarkable film.
A Playwright's Cinematic Adventure
Aleshea Harris, a playwright turned filmmaker, has taken the industry by storm with her adaptation of her own Pulitzer Prize-finalist play. 'Is God Is' is a wild ride, blending ancient Greek tragedy with the Coen brothers' quirky humor, resulting in a brutally honest and funny revenge narrative. The film's success, with a 97% freshness rating on Rotten Tomatoes, is a testament to Harris' ability to translate her theatrical prowess onto the big screen.
The Making of a Cinematic Language
Harris' cinematic language is bold and unique. She speaks of curating spaces, colors, and performances to create a mythic register. The challenge was to translate the visual art she studied into a filmic experience, and she did so with precision and an eye for detail. The result? A visually stunning and thought-provoking film that demands attention.
Behind the Scenes: Financing and Casting
The journey to bring 'Is God Is' to life was not without its challenges. Harris navigated a bidding war, eventually choosing Amazon-MGM-Orion as her partners. The process involved trimming budgets and making compromises, such as reducing the twin boys' stories, despite the talented performances of Justen Ross and Xavier Mills.
The casting of Kara Young and Mallori Johnson as the twin sisters was a stroke of genius. Harris sought the best actors, not necessarily twins, who could portray the intimate understanding and chemistry required for the roles. Their performances are a testament to Harris' eye for talent and her ability to create a unique visual language between the sisters, even subtitling their wordless communication.
Exploring Revenge and Black Female Narratives
'Is God Is' delves into the world of revenge, a genre often dominated by male protagonists. Harris, however, flips the script, placing Black women at the center of this narrative. She speaks of the deep wounds and anger that Black women often carry, and how this film serves as a vessel to explore these emotions both within the story and outside of it.
Harris draws inspiration from a diverse range of revenge narratives, from 'Kill Bill' to 'Our Father, the Devil', showcasing her love for the genre and her desire to subvert expectations.
The Menacing Villain: Sterling K. Brown
Sterling K. Brown's performance as the menacing villain is a standout. Harris speaks of obscuring his face and playing with the audience's perception, leveraging Brown's charming persona to create an unexpected and menacing presence. The scene where he slaps his daughter, a moment of intense tension, is a testament to Harris' ability to direct and extract powerful performances from her actors.
Learning and Growth as a Filmmaker
Harris' journey as a first-time filmmaker was a baptism by fire. She surprised herself with her toughness and dedication, showing up for her work and collaborators. The restraint and control she exhibits in the film, despite its wild nature, is a result of her theatrical background and an understanding of when to press certain buttons and foreground specific elements.
Location Scouting: Creating a Cinematic Odyssey
Location scouting was an adventure for Harris, as she had to adapt her vision to the realities of Louisiana. Despite the challenges, she and her team created a barren and expansive world, using color and location to transport the audience on an odyssey. Harris's ability to dream into a space and write for specific locations showcases her unique approach to filmmaking.
Conclusion
'Is God Is' is a testament to Aleshea Harris' talent and vision. Her ability to translate her theatrical background into a cinematic language is nothing short of remarkable. The film's success and the intense reactions it elicits from audiences are a testament to Harris' skill as a storyteller and her unique perspective on revenge narratives. Personally, I think Harris has carved out a space for herself in the industry, and I, for one, am excited to see what she does next.
