Liberal Arts

Synopsis

Liberal Arts follows the story of Jesse, a 35-year-old admissions officer at a New York City college, who returns to his alma mater in Ohio for a professor's retirement party. While there, he meets Zibby, a 19-year-old student who rekindles his passion for literature and academic pursuits. Their deep intellectual and emotional connection forces Jesse to confront his own insecurities and the challenges of growing up. As their relationship blossoms, Jesse grapples with the complexities of age difference, self-discovery, and the blurred boundaries between friendship and romance. Liberal Arts is a poignant exploration of nostalgia, personal growth, and the timeless search for meaning in life.

Cast

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  Josh Radnor

  Jesse Fisher

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  Elizabeth Olsen

  Zibby

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  Richard Jenkins

  Professor Peter Hoberg

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  John Magaro

  Dean

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  Zac Efron

  Nat

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  Allison Janney

  Professor Judith Fairfield

Reviews

Liberal Arts received mixed reviews from critics, with some praising its sincere exploration of intellectual connection and emotional maturity, while others found it overly sentimental or cliched. Rotten Tomatoes gave the film a 71% approval rating, with critics applauding Josh Radnor's thoughtful direction and Elizabeth Olsen's standout performance. IMDb rated the movie 6.7/10, with viewers appreciating its nostalgic charm and relatable themes of self-discovery and human connection. Metacritic assigned Liberal Arts a score of 55/100, citing its genuine performances and heartfelt storytelling. Overall, the film is a tender and introspective look at the complexities of relationships and personal growth, resonating with audiences who value intellectual stimulation and emotional depth.