Clarissa Will Arrive in Theaters December 11, 2026
The NEON-acquired Nigerian reimagining of Virginia Woolf's novel will debut in cinemas this December.
Updated on Oct. 1, 2026 in Science Fiction
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NEON will release the film Clarissa in theaters on December 11, 2026. The project, which explores themes of memory and class, follows a screening at the New York Film Festival beginning October 4, 2026.
Why it matters
The film aims to reframe the concepts of the original Virginia Woolf novel within a contemporary Nigerian context. By focusing on two distinct social worlds in Lagos, it offers a new perspective on trauma and the legacy of colonialism.
The film was produced entirely on 35mm film in Nigeria and previously premiered at the 2026 Cannes Directors' Fortnight. NEON secured the global distribution rights for the title in February 2026.
The players
NEON
This independent film production and distribution company is known for bringing acclaimed international and domestic cinema to global audiences.
Arie and Chuko Esiri
They are the filmmakers who wrote and directed this Nigerian adaptation of the classic novel.
Sophie Okonedo
She is a celebrated actress with extensive experience in both film and television roles globally.
David Oyelowo
He is an internationally recognized actor frequently noted for his powerful portrayals of complex historical and fictional figures.
The details
Filmmakers Arie and Chuko Esiri adapted the narrative to reflect contemporary Nigerian life, centering on a soldier named Septimus who grapples with PTSD following the Boko Haram insurgency. The story maps two divergent social worlds in Lagos, shaped by historical class structures and colonial influences.
Timeline
February 2026: NEON acquired the worldwide rights to the film.
October 4, 2026: Screenings begin at the New York Film Festival.
December 11, 2026: The film officially opens in theaters.
Industry Dynamics
This story follows the momentum established by the 2026 Cannes Directors' Fortnight, where it first premiered to international audiences. The acquisition of the film reflects a growing industry trend of backing international reimaginings of classic literary canon.
Audiences can experience the film in theaters starting December 11, 2026. Those attending the New York Film Festival can view the project earlier during the event's October screenings.
The takeaway
This production highlights how classic literature can be effectively adapted to offer fresh insights into modern national experiences. Audiences looking for global cinema should track major festival circuits, as these events often serve as the primary indicator for limited theatrical releases.
Further reading
Explore more upcoming releases in the Science Fiction section.
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