The first full-length trailer for the highly anticipated fantasy film Children of Blood and Bone has arrived, showcasing a star-studded cast including Cynthia Erivo, Viola Davis, Idris Elba, Regina King, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Damson Idris, Amandla Stenberg, Lashana Lynch, and Tosin Cole. Directed by Gina Prince-Bythewood, the film is based on Tomi Adeyemi's bestselling 2018 novel of the same name.
Plot and Setting
Set in the West African-inspired fantasy world of Orïsha, the story follows Zélie Adebola (Thuso Mbedu) as she attempts to reclaim the magical powers stolen from her people. Alongside her brother and the king's children, she embarks on a mission to overthrow the king's brutal rule. The trailer features Beyoncé's 2022 song "Energy," adding another major star to the project.
Key scenes include Damson Idris's character Prince Inan sharing a tender moment with Zélie, who expresses concern about her lost powers to Idris Elba's character Lekan, who responds: "They were waiting for you."
Author Controversy
Despite the excitement, the trailer's release is overshadowed by controversy. In July 2026, author Tomi Adeyemi, 32, publicly denounced the film on TikTok, stating she would not watch or promote it. She revealed she had blocked lead actress Amandla Stenberg, 27, and shared a screenshot of a text message telling Stenberg: "Do not ever use my name in an interview or video again. do not text me. do not call me."
Adeyemi had originally signed on as an executive producer and screenwriter for the film. The reasons for her sudden disavowal remain unclear, as she has not provided further details. The film's acquisition by Paramount is considered one of the biggest young adult publishing deals ever.
Dream Cast Realized
In a 2018 interview with Metro, Adeyemi expressed her desire for Viola Davis and Idris Elba to be cast in the film, describing Elba as "the one person that I thought, if he doesn’t do this I’d feel kind of silly because it was kind of written for you." Both actors appear in the film.
Children of Blood and Bone is scheduled for release on January 15, 2027.
