BY LALIT VERMA
"The Book of Clarence," Jeymes Samuel’s funk-infused take on the New Testament, grapples with a spiritual crisis, oscillating between religious satire and a sincere exploration of faith.
The film, featuring a predominantly Black cast led by LaKeith Stanfield, injects Detroit R&B and funk into 33 AD Jerusalem, blending swords, sandals, and bongs.
While the sacrilegious tone exudes laid-back fun and inclusivity, Stanfield's performance as the herb-peddling hustler Clarence falls short of the charismatic fervor required for his role.
espite its ambitious attempt to blend satire, spirituality, and homage to biblical epics, "The Book of Clarence" finds itself caught between influences
like Monty Python, Martin Scorsese, and William Wyler, resulting in a likable but ultimately indecisive film.