Paul Schrader’s “The Basics of Philosophy” has completed principal photography, wrapping a six-week shoot that took place in Kansas City, New Haven, and Los Angeles.
With the film now entering post production, Schrader has gone on his Facebook to reveal a first look image of the film, featuring leads Jack Huston and Sofia Boutella.
Plot-wise, all we know so far is that “The Basics of Philosophy” centers on a university philosophy professor and will follow the stylistic mold of Paul Schrader’s “Man in a Room” trilogy — “First Reformed,” “The Card Counter,” and “Master Gardener.” After Ethan Hawke, Oscar Isaac, and Joel Edgerton, it’s now Huston’s turn to sit alone, pen in hand, writing in a diary in a quiet room.
Huston, best known for “Boardwalk Empire,” “American Hustle,” and “The Longest Ride,” recently made his directorial debut with Day of the Fight. A member of Hollywood royalty, he’s the grandson of director John Huston and nephew of actress Anjelica Huston. His co-star, Algerian-French actress Sofia Boutella, transitioned from dance to film with roles in “Kingsman: The Secret Service” “Star Trek Beyond,” and Gaspar Noe’s “Climax.”
A few years ago, Schrader hinted that he might have just “one more” film left in him following a series of health setbacks. Fast forward to 2024, and not only did “Oh, Canada” world premiere in Cannes competition, but he now has another film in the can.
Hopefully, ‘Basics of Philosophy’ will be a worthy addition to the Schrader canon which includes “Blue Collar,” “Mishima,” “Affliction,” “Auto Focus,” and “First Reformed.”
Expect this one to surface on the festival circuit sometime in 2026—Cannes or Venice are possibilities, but it’s still too early to tell.
