Clarissa
Neon | Release Date: December 11, 2026 CRITIC SCORE DISTRIBUTION
86
METASCORE
Universal acclaim based on 10 Critic Reviews
Positive:
10
Mixed:
0
Negative:
0

Critic Reviews

Critic scorePublicationBy date
80
VarietyJessica KiangMay 22, 2026
The Esiris cast a perceptive eye over the elite social constellation that has fallen into orbit around this dutiful but unfulfilled society wife, and have nothing but compassion for her as she spins slowly around and around at its center: loved by some, resented by others, admired by all — and totally alone. Read full review
80
Screen DailyRobert DanielsMay 22, 2026
Okonedo and Oyelowo give affecting performances as star-crossed lovers who can’t quite own up to their mistakes . . . Together they give Clarissa a touching guardedness that might not offer the spit and fire of Woolf’s Mrs. Dalloway, but certainly understands the permanent heartache and the poeticism of a life deferred. Read full review
90
The Hollywood ReporterLovia GyarkyeMay 22, 2026
There’s a radical bent to the Esiris’ interpretations of and deviations from Mrs. Dalloway. Read full review
100
The TelegraphTim RobeyMay 22, 2026
It’s an achingly elegant piece of work which I’m already looking forward to revisiting. Read full review
91
The PlaylistCarlos AguilarMay 22, 2026
The unassumingly magnetic Okonedo radiates the assertiveness and tranquility of someone secure in her reality. Read full review
80
Next Best PictureNadia DalimonteMay 22, 2026
Powered by excellent performances from Sophie Okonedo and India Amarteifio, who convey the multitudes of a fascinating titular character, “Clarissa” shines as a unique perspective on Woolf and exemplifies the Esiri brothers’ compelling vision as filmmakers. Read full review
80
The GuardianPeter BradshawMay 22, 2026
The Esiris have created a seductive, mesmeric picture. Read full review
75
The Film StageRory O'ConnorMay 22, 2026
A funny and formally adventurous adaptation of Virginia Woolf’s Mrs Dalloway set in modern-day Nigeria. Read full review
83
AwardsWatchBrandon LewisMay 21, 2026
Clarissa takes some time to answer its central question about the nature of freedom within rigid sociopolitical structures. The languid approach has structural and thematic purpose, and an answer in and of itself. Read full review
90
TheWrapChase HutchinsonMay 17, 2026
Yet for all the sadness at the core of its story, “Clarissa” is captivating in how honestly and openly it confronts that emotion. Read full review
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