“The Book of Clarence” is ripped, not from the bible, but from fractured memories of past Hollywood biblical epics.
Cue the chariot races, the filthy beggars shoved aside and cursed for their stink, and the gladiatorial combat on the way to liberating slaves. Beware the stoning of the harlot, the temptations of the flesh and the battle between the locals and the arrogant armored Roman occupiers on horseback. Savor the sweet wine of the last supper, aware that the agony of the crucifixion will follow with salty blood.
Set in 33 A.D., the biblical comedy from British singer-songwriter, music producer and filmmaker The Bullitts (aka Jeymes Samuel) has its heart in the right place and reflects a joy in and appreciation of the familiar genre that’s more popular around Easter than just after the new year.