The Basics of Philosophy

The Basics of Philosophy
Directed byPaul Schrader
Written byPaul Schrader
Produced by
Starring
CinematographySean Price Williams
Music byEli Keszler
Production
companies
  • Paul Schrader Productions
  • Redline Entertainment
  • Sodium Fox
Release date
  • September 4, 2026 (2026-09-04) (Venice)
Running time
94 minutes
CountryUnited States
LanguageEnglish

The Basics of Philosophy is an upcoming American drama film written and directed by Paul Schrader. Starring Jack Huston, Sofia Boutella, Daniel Zovatto, Bill Pullman, and Dana Delany.

The film will have its world premiere out of competition at the 83rd Venice International Film Festival on September 4, 2026.

Cast

Production

In August 2024, it was announced that Paul Schrader would be writing and directing a drama film titled The Basics of Philosophy.[1] Principal photography had wrapped in June 2025, when Jack Huston and Sofia Boutella were revealed to have joined the cast.[2] In August 2025, more cast members were revealed including Daniel Zovatto, Bill Pullman, Dana Delany, Shiloh Fernandez, Karl Glusman, and Elizabeth Petruso.[3]

Release

The Basics of Philosophy is scheduled to premiere out of competition at the 83rd Venice International Film Festival on September 4, 2026.[4]

References

  1. ↑ Garner, Glenn (August 25, 2024). "Paul Schrader Announces 'The Basics of Philosophy', Gives 'Non Compos Mentis' Update". Deadline Hollywood. Retrieved July 25, 2026.
  2. ↑ Booth, Ned (June 12, 2025). "'The Basics Of Philosophy': Paul Schrader's Next "Man In A Room" Movie Stars Jack Huston & Sofia Boutella". The Playlist. Retrieved July 25, 2026.
  3. ↑ Gajewski, Ryan (August 11, 2025). "Daniel Zovatto, Bill Pullman, Shiloh Fernandez Join Paul Schrader's 'Basics of Philosophy' (Exclusive)". The Hollywood Reporter. Retrieved July 25, 2026.
  4. ↑ "The Basics of Philosophy - Venice". Venice Film Festival. Retrieved July 25, 2026.