Is God Is Review: Southern goth splendor
I didn't know anything about the play before watching this trailer, but what I did know is that I was really excited for this movie! Revenge stories, particularly stylized ones with insane dialogue and action, are usually super fun to watch unfold. Two girls burned nearly to death by their dead and a crazy romp to avenge them and their mom? It's good stuff. Did this film deliver or disappoint? That's what I, Brighton Nelson of The Reel Ranker, will be discussing in today's Reel Ranker review. Thanks so much for joining me today, and I hope you enjoy your time on my website!
First, let's get into the negatives so we can save the best for last. The film's ending was unnecessarily rushed, and after finishing the movie, I saw the play's ending. I was left wishing that the ending was more faithful to that and had that extra breathing room. As-is, the film simply leaves on a little bit of a whimper.
Another main thing is that a certain chase sequence in which the assailant wields a hammer is choreographed in a rather ridiculous way, and the whole scene probably should've been retooled. Also, the father was more interesting and scary when he was obscured on-screen, without the visual image or dignity of humanity. The reveal of his face felt rather out of nowhere, and didn't add much. However, Sterling K. Brown still did a great job of playing the character. I just liked the more horror movie-esque approach. The last things aren't quite a flaw as much as big question marks: why so many scenes of people going to the bathroom? And why are you calling the mother who abandoned you God?
Other than those couple of misfires, however, this film was epic. The film is just as effective as a revenge film as it is as a bizarre comedy with memorable dialogue. The film takes a ton of interesting ideas, from the way the father is rarely depicted on-screen and cares nothing for seeing death, to the hilarious nonverbal communication between the twins as they brush their teeth. It takes an approach that makes it feel like folklore brought to life, but through a Southern Gothic lens. It's a mesmerizing approach, and it's insane that this week we got both Obsession and this film, which are far more competent than many other debuts.
The dialogue is probably the best part of the film, but the action is almost equally as good. The action is very unchoreographed and unspectacular, but its visceral, bloody nature really elevates it. The story isn't all that special, but it's executed really well, similar to Kill Bill: Part One, which is great due to its execution.
The twins' relationship is also great, even outside of non-verbal communication. It's such a fun relationship, and it's interesting how the sister who's more hurt is less vengeful. The twins may be really important to each other and share many personality traits, but they have very different outlooks on life. The makeup in the film is also incredible, as the twins and their mother all look like real burn victims.
The Reel Ranker Verdict
Reel or Unreel? - Reel
The Reel Ranker Score: 78%
Letter Score: A
Star Ranking: 4 out of 5
Is God Is may be one of the best debuts in recent memory. Aleshea Harris is certainly a director to watch! This film has a fantastic script, visceral action, satisfying revenge moments, marvelous makeup, and a memorable core duo... A great film adaptation of her eponymous play.
Interested in checking out some recent reviews for some recent thrillers? See them below!
Brighton Nelson
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