Schrader’s ‘The Basics of Philosophy’ Sparks Debate at Venice Over Guilt and Identity
Paul Schrader’s new film, 'The Basics of Philosophy,' premiered out of competition at the 2026 Venice Film Festival. Starring Jack Huston as a philosophy professor confronting a past sexual transgression, the movie explores themes of guilt, redemption, and the possibility of change. The film is Schrader’s 26th directorial effort and his first since a 2025 sexual misconduct lawsuit, which he denied. Critics and cast members highlighted the film’s intense focus on moral reckoning, with some noting its provocative juxtaposition of pedophilia and homosexuality. Martin Scorsese serves as executive producer, continuing their long-standing collaboration.
Key points
- The film premiered out of competition at the 83rd Venice Film Festival on September 4, 2026.
- Jack Huston stars as John Jorissen, a philosophy professor whose past abuse of a student resurfaces.
- Sofia Boutella plays Rebecca, Jorissen’s partner and colleague, while Bill Pullman plays his father.
- Martin Scorsese is the executive producer, marking his second collaboration with Schrader after 'The Card Counter.'
- Schrader, 79, cited his Dutch Calvinist upbringing as the reason he continues to write about guilt and predestination.
Background
Schrader has been active in late-career filmmaking, with 'The Basics of Philosophy' following 'The Card Counter' (2021) and 'Master Gardener.' In 2025, a former assistant accused Schrader of sexual misconduct, allegations he denied. The film is described as his best since 'First Reformed' (2018) by some critics, continuing his 'Man in a Room' archetype of isolated, self-documenting men.
How outlets are covering it
The Hollywood Reporter emphasized Schrader’s personal connection to guilt, noting his Calvinist upbringing and his statement that he cannot stop writing about the subject. The Guardian praised the film as a 'cool, cruel' return to form, highlighting its suspenseful pacing and black-and-white flashbacks. IndieWire called it a 'lurid study' that is 'quietly explosive but not dangerous enough,' criticizing Schrader’s portrayal of queer nightlife as dated and kitsch, while acknowledging it as his best film since 'The Card Counter.' Deadline provided festival context, noting the film’s out-of-competition screening alongside other major Venice premieres.
Why it matters
The film reignites debate on Schrader’s artistic autonomy and his handling of sensitive themes like sexual abuse and identity. Its reception at Venice, a key awards-season festival, may influence its trajectory toward potential Oscar recognition, especially given Scorsese’s involvement and the film’s provocative subject matter.
What to watch
The film is expected to enter the awards season conversation, with its Venice premiere generating buzz. Schrader has mentioned future projects, including 'Non Compos Mentis' and an ayahuasca-centered film 'The Doors of Perception.' The film’s critical reception may impact its distribution and audience reach.
- Paul Schrader Says He Can’t Stop Writing About Guilt: “You Don’t Outrun Your Childhood” The Hollywood Reporter
- The Basics of Philosophy review – Paul Schrader back to his cool, cruel best The Guardian
- Venice Film Festival 2026 Photos Day 3: ‘The Basics of Philosophy’ & ‘ Mr. Nelson, Did You Kill People?’ Premieres Deadline
- ‘The Basics of Philosophy’ Review: Paul Schrader’s Lurid Study of a Predatory Intellectual Is Quietly Explosive, but Not Dangerous Enough IndieWire
- Paul Schrader Tears Up at ‘The Basics of Philosophy’ Venice Premiere The Hollywood Reporter
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