“Is God Is” is a Southern Gothic revenge thriller that follows twin sisters Racine and Anaia, who were burned as children in a fire set by their abusive father. Living with the physical and emotional scars of that trauma, their lives are upended when their estranged, dying mother (revered by the sisters as “God”) reveals the truth behind their past and orders them to track down their father and kill him. What follows is a violent, emotionally charged journey across the American South, where the sisters are forced to confront questions of vengeance, survival and whether justice can ever truly heal what was done to them.
Filmed in New Orleans, Louisiana, the production uses the city’s atmospheric streets, decaying industrial edges and humid Southern backdrop to heighten the film’s tone of rage, grief and mythic reckoning, grounding its story in a place that feels both real and symbolic.
Experience The Southern Gothic Beauty Of New Orleans, Louisiana
Key Scenes: Although “Is God Is” follows twin sisters on a revenge-fueled journey across America, The Cinemaholic reports that much of the film was actually brought to life in New Orleans, Louisiana. Production was centered at Second Line Stages in the city’s Warehouse District, where filmmakers used sound stages to create many of the movie’s striking visual sequences. The cast and crew also reportedly ventured into other parts of New Orleans to capture atmospheric backdrops, showcasing why the city remains one of America’s most popular filmmaking destinations.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit New Orleans is between February and May, when comfortable temperatures and a vibrant calendar of events make the city especially appealing. Visitors can experience the world-famous Mardi Gras celebrations, explore the historic French Quarter, enjoy live jazz music and sample authentic Creole cuisine. For those looking to avoid the largest festival crowds, March and April offer a perfect balance of pleasant weather, cultural events and sightseeing opportunities.
Transportation Options: Getting around New Orleans is easy thanks to a variety of transportation options. Visitors can explore the city using the historic streetcar system, which provides an affordable and scenic way to reach popular neighborhoods and attractions. Public buses, ride-sharing services, taxis and rental cars are also widely available, while many areas (including the French Quarter) are best explored on foot. For a unique experience, travelers can even take ferry rides across the Mississippi River to enjoy views of the city skyline.
A key creative approach behind “Is God Is” was the way its visual style evolved alongside its characters, especially in the New Orleans setting. As writer/director Aleshea Harris explained in an interview with Revolt, the filmmakers wanted the world to feel “Kind of flat… like an effed up fairy tale” at the beginning, using lighting and composition to create a compressed, shadowed atmosphere that gradually opens up as the story unfolds.
She noted that shooting in New Orleans allowed the team to fully use the city’s “incredible locations,” with different spaces carrying distinct emotional meaning for the twins as their journey progresses. This careful shift in color, lighting, and tone helps transform the city itself into an emotional landscape that mirrors the characters’ arc.
Things to Do: New Orleans offers a wide range of highly rated attractions for visitors to enjoy. Top experiences include exploring the historic French Quarter, known for its vibrant atmosphere, live music and distinctive architecture, as well as visiting Jackson Square and the nearby St. Louis Cathedral. History enthusiasts can spend a day at the National WWII Museum, one of the city’s most acclaimed attractions, while nature lovers may enjoy strolling through City Park and its beautiful Sculpture Garden. Visitors can also tour the elegant Garden District to admire its historic mansions and oak-lined streets or discover the city’s musical heritage on Frenchmen Street, where live jazz performances fill local clubs nightly.
Where to Eat: New Orleans is renowned for its food scene, offering everything from classic Creole dishes to fresh Gulf seafood. Highly rated restaurants include Brennan’s, a historic dining institution known for its elegant Creole cuisine, and GW Fins, a favorite for upscale seafood dishes. Visitors seeking authentic local flavors can also dine at Mr. Ed’s PoBoy Shop for traditional po’boys or enjoy oysters and Cajun specialties at Gallier Restaurant & Oyster Bar. For a romantic evening, Irene’s is known for its charming atmosphere and classic New Orleans dining experience.
Where to Stay: In the heart of the French Quarter, Hotel Monteleone is a classic choice known for its elegant rooms and iconic Carousel Bar, while Bourbon Orleans Hotel places guests steps away from Jackson Square and Bourbon Street in a restored historic building. For a luxury experience, The Ritz-Carlton New Orleans offers upscale accommodations just off the French Quarter with a renowned spa and refined Southern hospitality. Another top-rated option is The Roosevelt New Orleans, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel, known for its grand lobby, historic charm and proximity to Canal Street attractions. For travelers looking for a more modern boutique stay, Maison Métier in the Warehouse District offers stylish design, personalized service and easy access to the city’s cultural highlights.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is “Is God Is” based on a true story?
No, “Is God Is” is not based on a true story. It’s a fictional work originally written as a stage play by Aleshea Harris and later adapted into a film, with a stylized, mythic revenge narrative rather than a depiction of real events.
Where can I watch “Is God Is”?
In the U.S., “Is God Is” is available to rent or buy on Amazon Prime Video and Apple TV. It is not currently included in any major streaming subscription services.
