The Basics of Philosophy

Explore The Basics of Philosophy (2026), including ReelBot’s take, cast, runtime, where to watch, and similar movies worth adding to your list.

2026 · 94 min · Drama · TMDB 5.8/10

Overview

A repressed philosophy professor, Dr. John Jorissen, is employed at Ridgemont College, a small liberal arts school in the American Midwest. He teaches an introductory course and is writing a book on renowned Dutch philosopher Baruch Spinoza. Haunted by a long-buried transgression and the sudden return of its victim, he descends into a crisis of guilt, desire, and spiritual reckoning.

Directed by Paul Schrader

Cast