Jeymes Samuel Sets Cast for 'The Book of Clarence' Adding Benedict Cumberbatch, James McAvoy, Anna Diop Among Others

 

by Darian Scalamoni

    Jeymes Samuel made his directorial debut last year with the Netflix western, The Harder They Fall starring Jonathan Majors, Idris Elba, Regina King and many other great actors. Now, he has his next project in his sights with The Book of Clarence and we have news on who he's cast for his biblical drama.

    According to The Hollywood Reporter, Samuel has cast a treasure trove of acting talent for his latest film which includes the following: Benedict Cumberbatch (Doctor Strange in the Multiverse of Madness), James McAvoy (Split), David Oyelowo (Selma), Anna Diop (Titans), Lakeith Stanfield (Sorry to Bother You), Caleb McLoughlin (Stranger Things), Omar Sy (Lupin), Micheal Ward (Empire of Light) and Alfre Woodard (12 Years a Slave). He will also reunite with RJ Cyler for the project, who played Jim Beckwourth in The Harder They Fall.

    The project has just commenced in Italy and has been said to be inspired by classic Hollywood epics in the vein of the Biblical era. Stanfield stars as Clarence, an impoverished resident of Jerusalem who embarks on a journey to capitalize on his sudden fame and celebrity in regard to his influence of the Messiah for personal gain. Jeymes Samuel writes and directs the project that will be released in theaters. 

    It certainly sounds like another ambitious film from Samuel following The Harder They Fall, which I thoroughly enjoyed. Samuel definitely has a beautiful eye and has showcased his ability to tell more grandiose stories on screen, so I think the combination of his written word, direction and terrific casting additions should lead to another great movie for his filmography.