Film Review: ‘Irrational Man’

How can committing a murder for a complete stranger be an existential triumph? Answer: When it's the brainchild of Woody Allen in his new film, "Irrational Man."

And that man would be Abe Lucas (Joaquin Phoenix), a college philosophy professor whose midlife ennui has rendered him self-destructive. Abe has arrived at a point in his life where he finds no "clear reason for living." But after accepting a position at a small New England college, opportunity knocks and his existence takes on new meaning.

While lunching at a local diner with his favorite student, Jill (Emma Stone), the two eavesdrop on a conversation at the next table. The woman, speaking about a predicament in which she finds herself, is driven to tears. Abe, as if suddenly struck by lightning, now sees the chance to inject purpose into his lackluster life. 

Abe's distorted sense of free will allows him to commit a heinous crime and revel in the power of rejuvenation, which it provides. Jill begins putting the pieces together as their relationship moves from the platonic to the bedroom. The closer she becomes to Abe, the more frightened she is about his disturbing behavior. Fate soon intervenes and drives their destinies down unexpected paths.

"Irrational Man" will strike similar chords that Allen's "Crimes and Misdemeanors" unexpectedly struck years ago. When we realize that this film is headed in the same direction, it provokes wondering if Abe, too, will get away with murder. There's no telling until the jaw-dropping conclusion. 

Phoenix, as always, perfectly fits into the skin of his character. His booze-swilling, slovenly attired, pot-bellied Abe is spot on. When he begins liking himself, we do too ... and for all the wrong reasons. He has the gift.