Starting Out in the Evening

Synopsis

In the film Starting Out in the Evening (2007), Frank Langella plays Leonard Schiller, a reclusive and aging novelist trying to complete what may be his final book. His solitary world is disrupted when a young graduate student named Heather enters his life, eager to uncover the truths behind Leonard's work. As Leonard and Heather's relationship deepens, they begin to examine themes of love, literature, and the passage of time. Directed by Andrew Wagner, this introspective drama delves into the complexities of creativity, connection, and the pursuit of understanding in the face of mortality.

Cast

• 

  Frank Langella

  Leonard Schiller

• 

  Lauren Ambrose

  Heather Wolfe

• Patti Perkins

  Dolores

• 

  Adrian Lester

  Casey Davis

• 

  Lili Taylor

  Ariel Schiller

• Dennis Parlato

  Author

Reviews

Starting Out in the Evening has received critical acclaim for its poignant storytelling and compelling performances. Rotten Tomatoes gives it a solid rating of 88%, with critics praising Frank Langella's nuanced portrayal of Leonard Schiller and the film's thoughtful exploration of existential themes. IMDb users have rated it 6.9/10, citing the movie's emotional depth and intellectual engagement. Metacritic also gives it a favorable score of 78/100, highlighting the film's meticulous character development and literary references. Critics have described the movie as a moving character study that resonates with anyone reflecting on their life choices and legacy. 'Starting Out in the Evening is a masterful blend of literary insight and human drama,' says The New York Times, capturing the essence of this touching narrative.