The Book of Clarence

Movie Title: The Book of Clarence
Director: Jeymes Samuel
Genre: Biblical Comedy-Drama
Year of Release: 2024
Date of Release: January 12, 2024
Length of Movie: 2 hours 9 minutes
Country: United States
Soundtracks: Features new music by Jeymes Samuel, JAY-Z, Lil Wayne, Kid Cudi, and more.
Age Rating: PG-13 (for language throughout, brief full nudity, some sexuality, and strong violence)

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About the Movie:

The Book of Clarence is a bold reimagining of the biblical epic, blending humor and drama to explore themes of faith, identity, and redemption.

Main Plot & Characters

Set in 33 A.D. Jerusalem, the film follows Clarence (LaKeith Stanfield), a down-on-his-luck man captivated by the power and glory of the rising Messiah and His apostles.

Seeking a better life for his family and to free himself from debt, Clarence risks everything to carve his own path to a divine life, ultimately discovering that the redemptive power of belief may be his only way out.

Key Themes of The Book of Clarence

The film explores themes of faith, identity, and redemption, highlighting the transformative power of belief and the quest for personal significance.

Themes Explored in Depth

• Faith and Belief: Examines the impact of faith on personal transformation and societal dynamics.
• Identity and Purpose: Explores the search for meaning and the desire to be part of something greater.
• Redemption: Highlights the possibility of redemption through self-discovery and belief.

Setting & Filming Locations

The film authentically recreates ancient Jerusalem, with filming locations including Matera, Basilicata, Italy, known for its historical architecture that resembles ancient Middle Eastern cities.

Fun Facts about the Movie

• Director Jeymes Samuel and lead actor LaKeith Stanfield previously collaborated on the 2021 film The Harder They Fall.
• The film features a diverse ensemble cast, including Omar Sy, Anna Diop, RJ Cyler, David Oyelowo, and Benedict Cumberbatch.
• The soundtrack includes new music by Jeymes Samuel, JAY-Z, Lil Wayne, Kid Cudi, and more, blending contemporary sounds with the film’s historical setting.

Quotes from the Movie

• “I believe in life itself. You pray to a man in the sky you’ve never met.” – Clarence”
• A man that lacks honor is a nobody.” – Thomas
• “Faith is not something you hide behind. You stand in front of it.” – Barabbas

Cast

• LaKeith Stanfield as Clarence
• Omar Sy as Barabbas
• Anna Diop as Varinia
• RJ Cyler as Elijah
• David Oyelowo as John the Baptist
• Micheal Ward as Judas Iscariot
• Alfre Woodard as Virgin Mary
• Teyana Taylor as Mary Magdalene
• Caleb McLaughlin as Dirty Zeke
• Marianne Jean-Baptiste as Amina
• Eric Kofi-Abrefa as Jedediah the Terrible
• James McAvoy as Pontius Pilate
• Benedict Cumberbatch as Benjamin

Writers

• Jeymes Samuel