Listen Up Philip

Synopsis

Listen Up Philip is a 2014 dramedy that follows the life of an ambitious but self-absorbed author named Philip Lewis Friedman, played by Jason Schwartzman. As Philip prepares to release his second novel, he grapples with his increasingly tumultuous relationships, particularly with his girlfriend, Ashley (Elizabeth Moss), who struggles to deal with his narcissistic tendencies. The film delves into the complexities of creativity, jealousy, and social isolation in the literary world, juxtaposing Philip’s brash personality with the subdued existence of those around him. As he seeks mentorship from the reclusive and frustrated writer Ike Zimmerman (Jonathan Pryce), Philip's journey offers a poignant exploration of artistic ambition and the existential crises that often accompany it. The film is laced with a distinct visual style and an emotive score, capturing the essence of urban life and the intimacy of personal struggles within the backdrop of New York City.

Cast

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  Jason Schwartzman

  Philip

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  Elisabeth Moss

  Ashley

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  Jonathan Pryce

  Ike

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  Krysten Ritter

  Melanie

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  Joséphine de la Baume

  Yvette

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  Jess Weixler

  Holly

Reviews

Listen Up Philip has garnered a mixed but generally positive response from critics, showcasing a fresh take on the self-absorbed artist narrative. Rotten Tomatoes scores the film at 82%, indicating that many viewers appreciated its unique storytelling approach, while Metacritic gives it a solid score of 76/100. The Wall Street Journal remarked, 'The film embraces its characters' flaws with an audacious and refreshing honesty,' highlighting its introspective nature. Meanwhile, IndieWire praised Schwartzman’s performance, calling it 'a bravura display of self-indulgence that resonates with painful truth.' However, some critics noted the film's lack of conventional structure, with The Guardian commenting, 'Its nonlinear narrative may alienate viewers who prefer straightforward storytelling.' On IMDb, it holds a modest rating of 6.3/10, reflective of its polarizing appeal. Overall, Listen Up Philip is celebrated for its sharp dialogue and darkly comedic take on the trials of artistic life, striking a chord with those who appreciate films that challenge typical genre norms.