CANEX Creations Inc., a subsidiary supported by Afreximbank, has announced its investment in the feature film Clarissa, a drama directed by the twin filmmakers Arie and Chuko Esiri from Nigeria. The film has been acquired for worldwide distribution by NEON, which will manage its theatrical release in the United States and international markets. This partnership presents an opportunity for showcasing Nigerian cinema on a global platform, highlighting the potential for African narratives in the mainstream film industry.

Clarissa is a contemporary adaptation of Virginia Woolf's novel, re-imagined in the context of Lagos, Nigeria. It narrates the story of a society woman preparing for a party at her home, only to confront her past as she encounters friends from her youth. The film is shot on 35mm in various locations in Lagos and Delta State, making it not just a story about personal relationships but also a visual celebration of Nigerian settings. The film addresses themes of nostalgia, societal expectations, and the complexities of human connections, promising to resonate with both local and international audiences.

The cast comprises notable actors, including Sophie Okonedo, known for her acclaimed performances in both film and television. With its investment and distribution by established entities like CANEX and NEON, Clarissa symbolizes a significant step forward in promoting Nigerian films internationally. It emphasizes the growing interest in African stories and the importance of support from financial institutions in facilitating this growth, making it a landmark event for the Nigerian film industry and African cinema as a whole.