Watch Liberal Arts

Liberal Arts is a romantic comedy-drama movie released in 2012, directed, written, and starred in by Josh Radnor. It tells the story of Jesse Fisher (Josh Radnor), a 35-year-old man working in New York City as a college admissions counselor who is unhappy and stuck in his daily routine. Jesse receives an invitation to return to his alma mater, Kenyon College in Ohio, for the retirement ceremony of his former professor, Peter Hoberg (Richard Jenkins). After arriving on campus, Jesse wanders around the place where he spent his college years, reminiscing about his past, and reconnecting with some old friends. He also meets Zibby (Elizabeth Olsen), a 19-year-old undergraduate student at the college, who is passionate about music, literature, and classical art. Despite their age gap, Jesse and Zibby quickly strike up a friendship, bonding over their shared love for books and music. Jesse starts to feel young again, experiencing a sense of nostalgia for his college years and an attachment to Zibby. However, he is unsure of their feelings for each other and hesitant to act, considering the consequences of a relationship with a much younger woman. Throughout the movie, Jesse embarks on a journey of self-discovery, figuring out what he wants from life, and breaking out of his comfort zone. He finds himself caught between the familiarity of the past and the unpredictability of the future, uncertain about how to move forward. Meanwhile, Zibby is dealing with her own uncertainties about love and relationships, leading to a heartwarming and realistic portrayal of two people searching for happiness. As they spend more time together, Jesse and Zibby's connection deepens, and they both bring out the best in each other. Along the way, they explore the beauty of literature and music, experiencing life's joys and pitfalls, and ultimately discovering the power of love. The film also features a standout performance by Zac Efron, who plays Nat, an eccentric college student who becomes Jesse's unlikely confidant and guide. Nat injects the film with humor, wit, and a youthful energy, adding an extra layer of charm to the story. The cinematography is breathtaking, capturing the beauty of Kenyon's campus in all its glory. The soundtrack is also a highlight of the movie, featuring a mix of classical, jazz, and indie rock songs that perfectly complement the story's emotional beats. Overall, Liberal Arts is a charming and poignant movie, perfect for anyone who has ever felt stuck or unsatisfied with their life. It explores themes of love, nostalgia, and the power of literature and art to inspire and change us. Radnor's direction and writing are skillful, and his chemistry with Olsen is palpable, making their May-December romance feel authentic and heartfelt. It's a movie that will leave you feeling warm and fuzzy, reminding you of the beauty and universality of human connection.