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The Book of Clarence

The Book of Clarence is a 2023 American biblical comedy-drama film written, directed, and scored by Jeymes Samuel.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

The Book of Clarence is a 2023 American biblical comedy-drama film written, directed, and scored by Jeymes Samuel. Starring LaKeith Stanfield, it follows a struggling man in A.D. 33 Jerusalem who tries to exploit the rise of Jesus by claiming to be a new messiah. The film premiered in October 2023 and was released in U.S. cinemas in January 2024.

Premise

The story follows Clarence, a streetwise man in Jerusalem who is burdened by debt and attracted by the influence of Jesus and his followers. His attempt to reinvent himself as a messiah drives the plot.

Production

The film was written and directed by Jeymes Samuel, who also composed the score. It was produced by Samuel alongside Jay-Z, James Lassiter, and Tendo Nagenda.

Cast

LaKeith Stanfield leads the cast, with Omar Sy, RJ Cyler, Anna Diop, David Oyelowo, Micheal Ward, Alfre Woodard, Teyana Taylor, Caleb McLaughlin, Marianne Jean-Baptiste, James McAvoy, and Benedict Cumberbatch in supporting roles.

Release

The Book of Clarence premiered at the London Film Festival in October 2023 and opened in U.S. theatres on January 12, 2024.

Reception and format

The film is described as a comedy-drama with biblical themes and a stylized, contemporary sensibility. It was rated PG-13 in the United States.

Key facts

  • The film is set in A.D. 33 Jerusalem and centers on Clarence, a poor and cynical man.
  • Clarence attempts to profit from the growing attention around Jesus by presenting himself as a messiah.
  • LaKeith Stanfield plays a dual role as Clarence and his twin brother Thomas.
  • Jeymes Samuel served as writer, director, and composer, and also produced the film with Jay-Z, James Lassiter, and Tendo Nagenda.
  • The film’s running time is about 136 minutes.
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Canadian context

The film was released internationally and is part of contemporary English-language cinema that would be of interest to Canadian audiences through theatrical and streaming availability.

Frequently asked questions

What is The Book of Clarence about?
It follows a debt-ridden man in A.D. 33 Jerusalem who tries to improve his life by claiming to be a new messiah.
Who directed The Book of Clarence?
Jeymes Samuel directed the film and also wrote and scored it.
Who stars in The Book of Clarence?
LaKeith Stanfield stars, with Omar Sy, RJ Cyler, Anna Diop, David Oyelowo, and others in supporting roles.
When was The Book of Clarence released?
It premiered in October 2023 and was released in U.S. cinemas on January 12, 2024.
What genre is The Book of Clarence?
It is generally described as a biblical comedy-drama.
Is The Book of Clarence based on a true story?
No. It is a fictional film set in biblical-era Jerusalem.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Book_of_Clarence
    Supports: Basic film credits, cast, premise, and release information.
  2. Rotten Tomatoes — https://www.rottentomatoes.com/m/the_book_of_clarence_2024
    Supports: Genre, rating, and U.S. release date.
  3. The Hollywood Reporter — https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-reviews/the-book-of-clarence-review-lakeith-stanfield-1235780399/
    Supports: Film premise and stylistic description.
  4. RogerEbert.com — https://www.rogerebert.com/reviews/the-book-of-clarence-film-review-2024
    Supports: Premise, setting, and character details.
  5. Netflix — https://www.netflix.com/title/81698411
    Supports: Short synopsis and principal cast listing.