The Humbling
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“The Humbling (2014)” is a comedy-drama, romance, and psychological film based on Philip Roth's novel, directed by Barry Levinson. The plot centers on Simon Axler, an aging and mentally struggling actor, who after a breakdown and attempted suicide, embarks on an unconventional and complicated romantic relationship with Pegeen Mike, a much younger woman who identifies as a lesbian. Their relationship, characterized by a significant age gap and Pegeen's past, further destabilizes Simon's grasp on reality. The film explores themes of aging, mental health, identity, and the complexities of human relationships. Due to its mature themes, including strong sexual content, profanity, and psychological intensity, it is intended for a mature audience.
Things to Consider
LGBTQ & Gender Identity
The film features Pegeen Mike, a prominent character who identifies as a lesbian but enters into a sexual relationship with the male protagonist, Simon Axler. This portrayal has been noted by critics as potentially problematic or outdated in its depiction of sexual fluidity. Additionally, one of Pegeen's ex-lovers is a transgender character named Priscilla.
Pegeen Mike (Greta Gerwig) is explicitly identified as a lesbian who had a girlfriend, Priscilla, but then initiates a romantic and sexual affair with the much older male actor Simon Axler. A review notes Pegeen "disavows her former lesbianism" to be with Simon, and critics have called the film's take on her sexuality "outdated" and bordering on "offensive," suggesting a lesbian could be "easily swayed" by a man. The film also features a character named Priscilla (Billy Porter), an ex-lover of Pegeen's, described as a "transgendered stalker" whom Simon encounters.
Romance and Sexual Content
The movie centrally features an explicit romantic and sexual relationship between Simon Axler, an aging actor, and Pegeen Mike, a significantly younger woman who previously identified as a lesbian. The film's R-rating is partly attributed to strong sexual content and graphic nudity. Explicit details, including the presence of sex toys, are mentioned.
Scary & Intense Content
The film features highly intense psychological content, including a protagonist experiencing a severe mental breakdown, contemplating and attempting suicide, and grappling with delusions. The overall tone is described as dark, unsettling, and the ending is noted as particularly disturbing.
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Additional Context
Best For Ages
R (Restricted). The film is recommended for audiences 17 and older. This rating is justified by strong sexual content, explicit nudity, mature thematic elements including mental health crises and suicide attempts, and pervasive profanity. The complex and often disturbing psychological narrative, coupled with a central relationship that challenges societal norms, makes it unsuitable for younger viewers.
Good to Know
The film is an adaptation of Philip Roth's 2009 novel of the same name. Its critical reception was mixed, with some reviewers praising the performances, particularly Al Pacino's, while others found the overall execution to be unfocused or a 'boring mess'. There were no indications of sequels or adaptations that intensify or introduce new concerns.
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