First Look at ‘Children of Blood and Bone’ Before 2027 Release

The first official images from the much-anticipated fantasy film Children of Blood and Bone have been released. These photos give fans their best look yet at the film, which is based on Tomi Adeyemi’s bestselling novel and the world of Orïsha.

The new promotional pictures show several main characters in detailed costumes, armor, and beautiful outfits. This highlights the film's West African-inspired style.

In these images, lead actress Thuso Mbedu plays Zélie Adebola. She is joined by Tosin Cole as Tain, Amandla Stenberg as Princess Amari, and Damson Idris as Prince Inan.

Other notable cast members include Viola Davis, Cynthia Erivo, Idris Elba, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Regina King, and Lashana Lynch. They also appear in the first-look photos.

These visuals give fans a strong sense of the film’s ambitious world-building. This follows an earlier behind-the-scenes presentation and exclusive footage shown at CinemaCon in April.

The photos also let viewers see the detailed costume design, real sets, and African-inspired visual style of the film.

Gina Prince-Bythewood directed the movie and co-wrote the screenplay with Adeyemi. Children of Blood and Bone adapts the first book in the Legacy of Orïsha trilogy, which was first published in 2018.

The story is set in the fictional kingdom of Orïsha. It follows Zélie Adebola, a young Diviner who wants to bring back magic after a cruel king violently wipes it out.

Together with her brother Tzain, Princess Amari, and Prince Inan, she goes on a dangerous journey. The story explores themes of power, identity, family, and fighting against oppression.

The cast also includes Richard Mofe-Damijo, Zackary Momoh, Bukky Bakray, Saniyya Sidney, Ayra Starr, Shamz Garuba, Pamilerin Ayodeji, Temi Fagbenle, Kola Bodunde, and Diaana Babnicova.

Filming started in Lagos, Nigeria, in February 2025 and wrapped up later that year. The production focused on real locations and large-scale action scenes to create what the filmmakers call a grounded fantasy epic inspired by African history and culture.

The release of these first-look images comes as excitement builds for the film. It has gained attention for its mostly Black cast and its ambitious adaptation of a well-known young adult fantasy novel.

There has been ongoing discussion about colorism and cultural representation. Critics have raised questions about key casting choices in a story that is deeply connected to Yoruba identity and Black experiences.

Paramount Pictures plans to release Children of Blood and Bone in cinemas and IMAX on 15 January 2027.

Although exclusive footage was shown at CinemaCon earlier this year, no full public trailer has come out yet. These new images are the first major marketing materials that audiences can see as they wait for the film’s release.