David Oyelowo is set to bring a fresh perspective of Nigeria to international audiences through his new film, *Clarissa*, which he is eager to share with his children. The actor, who has a deep connection to the country through his Nigerian roots, attended the BAFTA Tea Party at the Mandarin Oriental in New York City on 4 October 2026 to celebrate the film’s upcoming release.
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*Clarissa*, which is scheduled to hit theatres on 11 December, is an adaptation of Virginia Woolf’s classic novel *Mrs. Dalloway*, with a contemporary twist set in bustling Lagos. The film, directed by brothers Arie and Chuko Esiri, also features notable performances from actors such as Toheeb Jimoh, Jude Akuwudike, and Ayo Edebiri.
Oyelowo expressed his excitement about the film, particularly its authentic depiction of Nigerian life, which he believes will resonate with both his children and the larger audience. “They’ve spent some time in Nigeria, but they haven’t seen this side of Nigeria,” he said, emphasising the beauty and authenticity captured in the film. He believes that viewers will be surprised by this portrayal of Nigeria, which diverges from the narratives often depicted in mainstream cinema.
The actor shares four children—Asher, 24, Caleb, 21, Penuel, 18, and 14-year-old Zoë—with his wife, Jessica Oyelowo. The couple has made it a point to instil a sense of cultural pride in their children, and Oyelowo is thrilled to share this cinematic experience with them. “To share it with my children is going to be a real pleasure,” he remarked, anticipating their reaction to the film.
His inspiration for *Clarissa* was rooted not only in the narrative but also in the creative team behind it. He was captivated by the Esiri brothers’ previous work, *Eyimofe*, which premiered in 2020. “*Eyimofe* was just a beautiful film and was shot in my country of heritage,” he shared. Oyelowo found the idea of transposing Woolf’s work onto Nigerian culture compelling and described it as an undeniable opportunity.
Filming *Clarissa* in Nigeria felt particularly significant for Oyelowo and his castmates, many of whom share West African heritage but had never had the opportunity to work in their ancestral homelands before. “It felt like a homecoming,” he reflected, noting the deep connection they all felt while telling their story in a place so rich in culture and history.
The narrative of *Clarissa* centres on a woman preparing for an important party, all the while reflecting on her past loves and marriage. This emotional journey, set against the backdrop of contemporary Lagos, serves to highlight the joys and complexities of life, love, and cultural identity.
The film has already garnered attention, having premiered at the 2026 Cannes Film Festival, followed by screenings at the New York Film Festival. These platforms are expected to elevate the film’s profile as it nears its release.
As the release date approaches, Oyelowo’s enthusiasm remains contagious, not only for *Clarissa* but also for the broader story it represents about Nigerian culture. He hopes that the film will open up discussions about the diverse experiences within Nigeria and the depth of its narrative traditions. Through his work, he aspires to challenge preconceptions and showcase the richness of a country that he holds dear.
Overall, Oyelowo’s commitment to authentic storytelling reflects his broader mission to celebrate his heritage in a way that resonates with a global audience. With *Clarissa*, he is poised to make a significant impact, introducing viewers to a side of Nigeria that is often overlooked in popular media.