The first trailer for Jeymes Samuel’s biblical epic The Book of Clarence is here. Sony’s new production is due to hit theatres on January 12, 2024.
Book of Clarence tells the account of Clarence, a Jerusalemite who is captivated by Jesus’ influence and becomes a Messiah for his own personal benefit. According to the film’s official synopsis, his trip takes him into an unexpected journey of religion. The first teaser shows LaKeith Stanfield’s Clarence as he strives to become one of the Messiah’s disciples. Enthralled by the prestige of the 12 apostles, he makes it his mission to join their ranks.
The film stars Stanfield, with whom Samuel collaborated on his last film, The Harder They Fall. Omar Sy, RJ Cyler, Benedict Cumberbatch, James McAvoy, Anna Diop, David Oyelowo, Alfre Woodard, and Teyana Taylor all appear.
The executive producer of the fim, Jay-Z clears out the confusion for those who believe The Book of Clarence is only a religious film, he emphasises that it is much more. “I would just like audiences to see Clarence’s full journey. A lot of times when you’re dealing with a story and religion is anywhere next to it, people shut down and immediately say, ‘Ah, that’s blasphemous,’ Instead, see this as an exploration ‘of a guy who grew up in the times when Jesus came to age.’ This is Clarence’s arc.”
Samuel says he approached filming with reverence and awe for classic biblical films like The Ten Commandments. “What happens when we, people of color and powerful women, occupy and inhabit a space? I knew I had to put our spin on it and inject our flavor into it.”
Watch the trailer here.
