‘Clarissa’ Reimagines ‘Mrs Dalloway’ in Lagos with Star-Studded Cast
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A new film adaptation of Virginia Woolf's 'Mrs Dalloway', titled 'Clarissa', has been completed, moving the story's setting from London to Lagos. Directed by brothers Arie and Chuko Esiri, the film features a cast including Sophie Okonedo, David Oyelowo, and Ayo Edebiri. The narrative alternates between past and present, incorporating a new subplot set within the Nigerian military.
Facts First
- Sophie Okonedo stars as Clarissa in an adaptation of Virginia Woolf's 'Mrs Dalloway'.
- The setting is moved from London to Lagos, directed by brothers Arie and Chuko Esiri.
- A new subplot involves a soldier named Septimus, played by Fortune Nwafor, in a corrupt Nigerian military unit.
- The narrative alternates between past and present, featuring younger and older versions of key characters.
- The film was shot on 35mm by cinematographer Jonathan Bloom.
What Happened
Directors Arie and Chuko Esiri have completed the film 'Clarissa', an adaptation of Virginia Woolf's novel 'Mrs Dalloway'. The setting has been moved from London to Lagos. The film stars Sophie Okonedo as the lead character, Clarissa, with Jude Akuwudike playing her husband, Richard. The narrative structure alternates between the past in the countryside and the present in the city, featuring different actors for younger and older versions of characters. A new subplot involves the character Septimus, played by Fortune Nwafor, a soldier in a corrupt unit of the Nigerian military.
Why this Matters to You
If you are a fan of classic literature or global cinema, this film may offer a fresh, culturally specific perspective on a well-known story. The high-profile cast and the creative decision to transplant the narrative to Lagos could make for a compelling cinematic experience that broadens the stories told on screen. The use of 35mm film cinematography might appeal to viewers who appreciate a distinct visual texture.
What's Next
The film... will likely be submitted to film festivals for its premiere. A wider theatrical or streaming release could follow, depending on its festival reception. This adaptation could spark further interest in reinterpreting classic Western literature through other cultural lenses.