The First Great Thriller of 2026 Is Here. Will It Leave You Scarred?

Aleshea Harris’s directorial debut, “Is God Is”, is a film that defies easy categorization as a traditional horror movie. While it may not be terrifying in the classical sense, its unflinching portrayal of domestic violence and trauma leaves viewers unsettled.

At its core, “Is God Is” explores the cyclical nature of abuse through the story of two twins, Racine and Anaia, who were scarred physically and emotionally by their abusive father’s actions as children. As adults, they embark on a journey to confront their father and exact revenge, but the true horror lies in the devastating impact that trauma has had on their lives.

The film shines a light on systemic issues that perpetuate poverty and abuse, particularly among Black people in the South. Harris’s writing and direction masterfully balance heavy themes with moments of beauty and humor. The use of socioeconomic commentary adds depth to the story, highlighting the struggles faced by marginalized communities.

What sets “Is God Is” apart from other films about domestic violence is its refusal to offer easy solutions or tidy resolutions. The story acknowledges the resilience of those who have survived trauma but also recognizes that the scars left behind can be just as damaging. As one critic noted, the film’s ending does not wipe away the atrocities committed; instead, it suggests that these wounds continue to haunt their victims.

This is a film that will linger long after the credits roll because it’s a powerful exploration of the human condition. It reminds us that the true horrors are not supernatural monsters or jump scares but the everyday cruelties we inflict on each other.

The way “Is God Is” handles trauma is both fascinating and disturbing. By exploring its long-term effects, Harris raises important questions about the impact of violence on individuals and communities. Her approach to depicting trauma is refreshing because it acknowledges that these wounds are not something that can be easily overcome or resolved but a complex web of emotions, memories, and physical sensations.

“Is God Is” feels particularly relevant in today’s world, where domestic violence and abuse remain rampant. It serves as a reminder that these issues are not just personal problems but systemic ones requiring collective action and attention. By shining a light on the struggles faced by Black people in the South, Harris’s film highlights how trauma is exacerbated by poverty, racism, and other forms of oppression.

The film does not provide a clear resolution or happy ending; instead, it leaves the viewer with a sense of unease and discomfort that lingers long after the credits roll. For cinephiles willing to engage with complex storytelling, “Is God Is” is a must-see. Harris’s direction is masterful, and her writing is both evocative and unflinching.

The film carries themes as old as time – violence begetting more violence, trauma perpetuating itself. Even if “Is God Is” doesn’t reinvent the wheel, it’s a powerful reminder of why these stories need to be told, retold, and told again.

As we leave the theater, one thing is certain: this film will linger in our minds. It’s a testament to Harris’s skill as a writer and director that she has managed to create something so powerful, so unsettling, and yet so beautiful. The scars left behind by trauma are still burning, still waiting to be confronted – a reminder of the everyday cruelties we inflict on each other and a warning to ourselves and our society that these issues need to be addressed now.