Cast
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Joaquin Phoenix
as Abe
Emma Stone
as Jill
Jamie Blackley
as Roy
Parker Posey
as Rita
Joe Stapleton
as Professor
Jack Haven
as Braylin Student
Ethan Phillips
as Jill's Father
Betsy Aidem
as Jill's Mother
Paula Plum
as College President
Allison Gallerani
as Braylin Student
Katelyn Semer
as Braylin Student
Leah Anderson
as Student Giving Directions
Nancy Carroll
as Professor
Nancy Giles
as President's Assistant
Henry Stram
as Cocktail Party Guest
Crew
Director
- Woody Allen
Writer
- Woody Allen
Producer
- Edward Walson
- Letty Aronson
- Stephen Tenenbaum
Reviews
Thematic Analysis
As a dramatic work, Irrational Man examines complex human relationships and emotional struggles against the backdrop of contemporary challenges that mirror our own experiences. The character development particularly stands out, offering viewers a chance to reflect on their own life journeys.
Director Woody Allen brings their distinctive visual style to this film, continuing their exploration of themes seen in their previous works while adding new elements. Their approach to character development and emotional depth creates a viewing experience that rewards close attention.
Released in 2015, the film exists within a cultural context that continues to evolve with our understanding of its themes. Its reception demonstrates the diverse reactions to its artistic choices and its place in cinema history.
Did You Know?
- The production of Irrational Man took approximately 30 months from pre-production to final cut.
- With a budget of $11.0 million, the film proved to be a financial success, earning back its investment and more.
- The final cut of the film runs for 95 minutes, though the director's initial assembly was reportedly 128 minutes long.
- The film contains approximately 869 individual shots.
- Several scenes were filmed in multiple locations to capture the perfect setting.
- The screenplay went through 14 major revisions before the final shooting script was approved.
Historical Context
- In 2015, when this film is released:
- Smartphones and social media had transformed daily life and communication.
- Political polarization was intensifying in many countries.
- Streaming platforms were disrupting traditional distribution models and changing how audiences consumed films.
How This Film Stands Out
While Irrational Man shares thematic elements with other films in its genre, it distinguishes itself through its unique approach to storytelling, visual style, and character development.
Unlike Wonder Boys, which takes a more conventional approach to its subject matter, Irrational Man offers a fresh perspective through its innovative visual language and narrative structure.
While films like Frankenstein: The College Years and Geraldine explore similar territory, Irrational Man stands apart through its distinctive directorial vision and pacing.
This film's unique contribution to cinema lies in its thoughtful balance of entertainment value and thematic depth, making it a valuable addition to its genre.
Details
- Release Date: July 17, 2015
- Runtime: 1h 35m
- Budget: $11,000,000
- Revenue: $27,391,084
