Jack Huston Cheers on Paul Schrader as Sexual Abuse Drama ‘Basics of Philosophy’ Premieres in Venice
Paul Schrader looked visibly moved as his new film “The Basics of Philosophy,” about a professor confronted with his past sexual abuse, premiered out-of-competition at Venice to a moderate 4.5-minute ovation on Friday night. The crowd cheered “Bravi, Bravi!” as star Jack Huston patted him on the back and added to the cheering. Co-stars Sofia […]
Paul Schrader's new film, "The Basics of Philosophy," premiered out-of-competition at Venice. The film stars Jack Huston as a philosophy professor confronting his past. According to Variety, the crowd gave the film a moderate 4.5-minute ovation, with Huston and others cheering.
The film's plot revolves around Huston's character, a professor who is grappling with his past actions. TheWrap notes that the script was written before Schrader was accused of sexual assault and harassment by a former assistant in April 2025. The film's themes of guilt and redemption are particularly relevant in light of these allegations.
The movie features Huston as John Jorrinson, a professor who reflects on his life through voiceovers and by studying the biography of philosopher Baruch Spinoza. According to TheWrap, the film is a character study of a man burdened by his past, and it explores questions of guilt, redemption, and personal change. The film also stars Sofia Boutella and Daniel Zavatto.
Brief written by urgent.news from Variety, Deadline, TheWrap, IndieWire, The Hollywood Reporter — 5 reports on this story. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
