New Images Show Characters from ‘Children of Blood and Bone’ Ahead of 2027 Release

The first official images from the eagerly awaited fantasy movie Children of Blood and Bone have been released. These images give fans their best look yet at the film based on Tomi Adeyemi’s popular novel and its world of Orïsha.

The new promotional photos highlight several key characters. They show off elaborate costumes, armor, and royal outfits that reflect a West African style.

Lead actress Thuso Mbedu stars as Zélie Adebola. Other main actors include Tosin Cole as Tain, Amandla Stenberg as Princess Amari, and Damson Idris as Prince Inan.

The cast also features big names like Viola Davis, Cynthia Erivo, Idris Elba, Chiwetel Ejiofor, Regina King, and Lashana Lynch, who all appear in the first photos.

Exciting Visuals

These images give a strong hint of the film’s ambitious setting. They follow an earlier behind-the-scenes look and exclusive footage shown at CinemaCon in April.

Fans can see the detailed costume design, real sets, and the African-inspired look of the film.

Gina Prince-Bythewood directed the movie and co-wrote the script with Adeyemi. Children of Blood and Bone is based on the first book in the Legacy of Orïsha trilogy, which was 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 harsh king wipes it out.

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

Star-Studded Cast

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

Filming took place in Lagos, Nigeria, starting in February 2025 and finished later that year. The production team focused on using real locations and large-scale action scenes to create a grounded fantasy story inspired by African culture and history.

The release of these images comes as excitement builds for the film. It has gained attention for having a mostly Black cast and for adapting one of the most praised young adult fantasy books in recent years.

There has been some backlash over issues of colorism and cultural representation. Critics have raised concerns about casting choices in a story that is closely linked to Yoruba identity and Black experiences.

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

While exclusive footage was shown at CinemaCon earlier this year, there has been no full public trailer yet. The new images are the first major marketing materials available as we count down to the film’s release.