DVD Corner

The Book Of Clarence Blu-ray Review

“The Book Of Clarence” is admirable, but doesn’t always work.    

Set in Jerusalem A.D. 33 and told in 3 book chapters, “The Book Of Clarence” revolves around the titular character who is a thief/conman/weed seller/screw-up that is in debt to Jedediah The Terrible. To make matters more complex, Clarence is in love with Jedediah’s sister Varinia. In a moment of clarity, Clarence vows to become the 13th Apostle (his twin brother Thomas being one of them already), but soon changes his mind to become a new messiah with the hope that it will get him out of debt. Along the way, Clarence changes for the better and discovers his own faith, but trouble soon catches up with him once again. 

Written and directed by Jeymes Samuel, “The Book Of Clarence” is a biblical comedy-drama that is nothing if not ambitious. Samuel has not only crafted a tribute to the grand biblical epics of yesteryear full of big sets, a chariot race, a gladiator fight, and even a dance number (think “Ben-Hur”), but he also created an original comedy in the vein of “Monty Python’s Life Of Brian” and “History Of The World, Part 1.” Unfortunately, the comedy element falls flat here outside of a few chuckle worthy moments. Tonally, the comedic elements feel like an afterthought when paired with the drama and the themes about growth, faith, black culture, and selflessness. Samuel’s script really could have used some punching up from a more seasoned comedy veteran. The ideas and concepts are ripe with comedic potential, but they are never taken advantage of. From a directorial perspective though, Samuel created a stylish and often entertaining film. It’s clear this was a passion project for the filmmaker.

Cast wise, ‘Clarence’ is headlined by one of the best actors in the biz- LaKeith Stanfield. For anyone that has followed his career, Stanfield has never shied away from taking on a wide variety of projects be it “Atlanta,” “Judas And The Black Messiah,” “Sorry To Bother You,” and now “The Book Of Clarence.” In this particular film, Stanfield takes on two roles with Clarence and Thomas. As per usual, his work is engrossing. The rest of the cast is rounded out by a wealth of talent that includes Benedict Cumberbatch, RJ Cyler, Caleb McLaughlin, David Oyelowo, Alfre Woodard, Teyana Taylor, James McAvoy, and the scene-stealing Omar Sy as Barabbas.

Video/Audio:

Presentation: 2.39:1 1080p. How does it look? In typical Sony Blu-ray fashion, the print is pristine.

Audio Track: 5.1 DTS-HD MA. How does it sound? From the soundtrack to the sound effects, this 5.1 track delivers.

Extras:
* Commentary by Jeymes Samuel and LaKeith Stanfield.
* Sony trailers
* 8 deleted scenes
* A 5 minute gag reel.
* “Song Of Songs: An Epic Collaboration”- Jeymes Samuel talks about the music and working with Jay-Z.
* “Band Of Brothers: Meet The Cast” featurette.
* “The Gospel Of Jeymes: On The Set With Jeymes Samuel” contains interviews, set footage, film clips, discussions about the story, and more.
* “Book 4: Making The Film”- A behind-the-scenes look at the production.  

March 26, 2024 - Posted by nicklyons1 | Blu-Ray review | Benedict Cumberbatch, Biblical Movie, Lakeith Stanfield, The Book Of Clarence Blu-ray Review