In July, Children of Blood and Bone, director Gina Prince-Bythewood’s adaptation of Tomi Adeyemi’s best-selling young adult fantasy novel of the same name, came out swinging with its first trailer, which was set to “ENERGY” by Beyoncé. It introduced us to the world of Orïsha (which is based on an alternate version of pre-colonial Nigeria), where Zélie (Thuso Mbedu) seeks to overthrow the tyrannical King Saran (Chiwetel Ejiofor), who has outlawed magic.
The second Children of Blood and Bone trailer, released today, continues with its impressive music cues. This one is set to “African Love Song,” an original song written for the film by Nigerian singer Tems (who is also the executive music producer of the soundtrack).
The new trailer also highlights more of the cast, including Amandla Stenberg as Princess Amari, who is sympathetic to Zélie’s resistance, and Damson Idris as Prince Inan, Amari’s brother. The rest of the stacked cast includes Cynthia Erivo as Admiral Kaea, Idris Elba as Lekan, Lashana Lynch as Jumoke, Viola Davis as Mama Agba, and Regina King as Queen Nehanda, among many others.
The film hasn’t been without controversy, though: shortly before the first trailer debuted, Adeyemi, who co-wrote the screenplay with Prince-Bythewood, distanced herself from the adaptation. Adeyemi has not clarified what made her step away from the film. Earlier, the film was accused of colorism in its casting.
Even so, Children of Blood and Bone appears to be in good hands with Prince-Bythewood. The trailers have been filled with gorgeous cinematography and costumes, and the story is immediately engaging.
Children of Blood and Bone hits theaters on January 15, 2027.
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