After plenty of behind-the-scenes drama, including author Tomi Adeyemi distancing herself from the film, the debut trailer for “Children of Blood and Bone” is here, showcasing director Gina Prince-Bythewood’s ambitious take on the lead book from one of the most popular young adult phenomena in recent memory.
Starring Thuso Mbedu as Zélie, the film follows her as she sets out to restore the magic that was stolen from her beloved Orïsha. She and her older brother Tzain (Tosin Cole) join forces with the children of the ruthless King Saran, portrayed by Chiwetel Ejiofor, in an all-out battle for the kingdom.
The film boasts an incredible cast, including Damson Idris and Amandla Stenberg as the children of King Saran, along with supporting roles for Cynthia Erivo, Lashana Lynch, Zackary Momoh, Richard Mofe-Damijo, Regina King, Idris Elba, Viola Davis, Saniyya Sidney, Diaana Babnicova, Bukky Bakray, Ayra Starr, Shamz Garuba, Kola Bodunde, Pamilerin Afolake Ayodeji, and WNBA star Tèmítópé Fágbénlé.
While those stars will likely be seen promoting the film, Adeyemi will not. As Deadline reported earlier this month, the author shared a since-deleted TikTok video urging fans to support her original work by purchasing her books from independent book retailers. She also shared what appeared to be a text exchange with Stenberg, telling the actor, “Do not ever use my name in an interview or video again. Do not text me. Do not call me.”
“There is a reason I will not post anything about the adaptation of my work. That’s all,” Adeyemi, who co-wrote the script with Prince-Bythewood, wrote in DMs she shared on TikTok. In a follow-up post she added, “And lastly since someone asked – I have not seen the film, and I will not watch it. It’s been painful holding this back from you all. … And I’m sorry if any of you thought I didn’t care about US. More than any glitter.”
Watch the trailer here. “Children of Blood and Bone” opens in theaters nationwide on January 17, 2027.
Source: theGrio
