The Book of Clarence, which Tristar plans to release in theaters on January 12, features an all-star cast, led by LaKeith Stanfield in a demanding performance as Clarence and a supporting cast that includes Omar Sy, RJ Cyler, Benedict Cumberbatch, James McAvoy, Anna Diop, David Oyelowo, Alfre Woodard, and Teyana Taylor. The ambitious tale pulls in classic biblical figures like Jesus, Mary Magdalene, and John the Baptist, but all with an unexpected twist. Like in The Harder They Fall, writer-director Samuel puts Black characters at the center of Clarence, exploding another classic Hollywood movie genre with a fresh take, full of humor and heart. “Most of the stories told in the Old West didn’t include people of color. We know they existed. We know we’ve been here just as long as anyone else,” says Jay-Z, who produced the film and credits Samuel with “finding fresh ways and perspectives to talk about these stories.”