The Book of Clarence is a film set in A.D. 33 Jerusalem that follows Clarence, a struggling, down-on-his-luck man who is the blue-eyed twin brother of the Apostle Thomas. Clarence, a common criminal and atheist, tries to capitalize on the rise of Jesus Christ by claiming to be a new Messiah sent by God, hoping to free himself from debt and start a life of glory
. The story is divided into three parts: "The 13th Apostle," "The New Messiah," and "The Crucifixion." Clarence loses a chariot race and faces financial troubles with a loan shark named Jedediah the Terrible, whose sister Varinia he loves. After a drug-induced vision, Clarence decides to pose as a messiah, performing fake miracles and gaining followers and money. He proposes to become the 13th apostle but is rejected by the original Twelve Apostles, including his cynical twin Thomas
. Clarence's journey includes freeing gladiator slaves using the money he earns, an act that distinguishes him from Jesus, who did not free slaves during his ministry. Despite his initial cynicism and trickery, Clarence undergoes a transformation, ultimately gaining genuine belief and reconciliation with his brother and others. The film intertwines Clarence's story with biblical events, culminating in his crucifixion alongside another false messiah figure, Benjamin, and his resurrection by Jesus
. The film addresses themes of occupation, colonialism, wealth, debt, and public executions, drawing parallels between ancient and modern issues. It portrays Clarence as a flawed, complex character who evolves from a self- serving trickster to someone capable of genuine acts of kindness and faith
. In summary, The Book of Clarence is a biblical-era drama exploring the life of a fictional false messiah who tries to exploit the rise of Jesus but ultimately finds redemption and meaning through his experiences
