I want to tell you that Is God Is is an electrifying feature directorial debut from playwright-turned-filmmaker Aleshea Harris. And it is. But I worry that the qualifier “feature directorial debut” will imply an asterisk, suggesting that the film is impressive for a debut rather than exceptional on its own merits. So, let me speak plainly.
Is God Is delivers filmmaking that is so mythic, mesmerizing, and menacing that it’s easily one of the best movies of 2026.
There. That’s clear, right?
A road trip movie with a Southern-fried edge, Harris’ thriller weaves inspiration from Greek mythology, Black culture, and the films of Quentin Tarantino to create something reverential yet stirringly fresh. Bolstering Harris’ bold vision are producers Tessa Thompson (Hedda) and Janicza Bravo (Zola), along with a riveting ensemble cast that includes Kara Young, Mallori Johnson, Janelle Monáe, Erika Alexander, Vivica A. Fox, and Sterling K. Brown.
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