Sophie Okonedo and David Oyelowo Star in Lagos-Set Film 'Clarissa' Directed by Arie and Chuko Esiri
Directors Arie and Chuko Esiri are bringing a Lagos-set adaptation of Virginia Woolf's novel Mrs. Dalloway to the screen with their upcoming film Clarissa. Featuring a star-studded cast led by Sophie Okonedo, David Oyelowo, and Ayo Edebiri, the drama premiered at Cannes before being acquired by NEON for a December 2026 release.
Nigerian twin filmmakers Arie and Chuko Esiri have returned with their latest cinematic project, "Clarissa," an adaptation of Virginia Woolf's celebrated 1925 novel "Mrs. Dalloway." Shifting the setting from post-war London to the vibrant backdrop of contemporary Lagos, the film explores themes of memory, emotion, and societal expectations. According to reporting by BellaNaija, the narrative centers on Clarissa, played by Oscar nominee Sophie Okonedo, as she prepares to host an extravagant high-society party at her home. As the hours tick down to the evening gathering, long-buried recollections and past romantic connections begin to resurface for the protagonist.
BellaNaija noted that the film runs parallel storylines, contrasting the upper-crust social sphere with deeply personal psychological struggles. While Clarissa navigates her grand preparations, the narrative simultaneously tracks Septimus, played by Fortune Nwafor. Septimus is portrayed as a young soldier confronting the unseen burdens of personal trauma. The dual perspectives serve to bridge the gap between high-society glamour and the quieter internal battles experienced by individuals living on the margins of their community.
The film features an expansive ensemble cast combining international figures and celebrated African talent. According to BellaNaija, India Amarteifio portrays the younger version of Okonedo's character Clarissa. Acclaimed actor David Oyelowo stars in the project alongside Toheeb Jimoh, who portrays the younger iteration of Oyelowo's character. Additional cast members include Ayo Edebiri, Nikki Amuka-Bird, Jude Akuwudike, Danny Sapani, Modesinuola Ogundiwin, Chuks Joseph, and veteran Nollywood actress Joke Silva.
Written by Chuko Esiri, "Clarissa" marks the filmmaking duo's follow-up to their critically acclaimed debut feature, "Eyimofe (This Is My Desire)." The project was produced by Theresa Park, Nicholas Weinstock, Arie Esiri, and Chuko Esiri. BellaNaija reported that the feature made its premiere at the Cannes Film Festival within the Directors' Fortnight section, where cast and crew members attended promotional events in May 2026. Following its festival screening, independent film distributor NEON acquired the distribution rights for the title.
Audiences eager to view the Esiri brothers' latest work will not have to wait much longer. According to BellaNaija, "Clarissa" is scheduled to open in select movie theaters on December 11, 2026. The theatrical debut positions the Lagos-set drama as a major late-year release for film enthusiasts following the directors' international success with their debut feature.