# Release of Paul Schrader film Basics of Philosophy > Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/release-of-paul-schrader-film-basics-of-philosophy > Updated: 2026-09-04T20:33:32.000Z. Sources: 5. Developments: 2. The film ‘The Basics of Philosophy’, written and directed by Paul Schrader, was announced with Martin Scorsese serving as an executive producer. The drama follows a philosophy professor dealing with guilt following the unexpected return of a victim from his past. Following its production, Schrader presented the film at the Venice Film Festival. During the presentation, Schrader discussed how the film utilizes Spinoza’s philosophy to explore themes of shame, redemption, and divine forgiveness, noting that his focus on isolated individuals tormented by past transgressions is influenced by his Calvinist upbringing. ## Claims - Schrader attributes his recurring cinematic themes to his strict Calvinist upbringing. (corroborated by 4 sources) - Schrader's film ‘Basics of Philosophy’ was presented at the Venice Film Festival. (corroborated by 4 sources) - ‘Basics of Philosophy’ is the 25th film directed by Paul Schrader. (corroborated by 4 sources) - The film ‘Basics of Philosophy’ features a philosophy professor dealing with the return of a person he sexually abused decades prior. (corroborated by 4 sources) - The film uses the philosopher Spinoza as a thematic element. (corroborated by 4 sources) ## Timeline ### 2026-09-04: Paul Schrader presents ‘Basics of Philosophy’ at Venice Film Festival Director Paul Schrader presented his 25th film, ‘Basics of Philosophy’, at the Venice Film Festival, exploring themes of guilt and redemption through the lens of Spinoza's philosophy. 5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/paul-schrader-presents-basics-of-philosophy-at-venice-film-festival ### 2026-08-19: Martin Scorsese to executive produce Paul Schrader film Martin Scorsese will serve as executive producer for Paul Schrader’s new drama ‘The Basics of Philosophy’, which is set to premiere at the Venice Film Festival. 2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/martin-scorsese-to-executive-produce-paul-schrader-film --- Cite as: Release of Paul Schrader film Basics of Philosophy. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/release-of-paul-schrader-film-basics-of-philosophy