Genre: Drama/Romance
Release Date: 2022
Language: English
Overview
“The Listener” is a 2022 American drama film directed by Steve Buscemi and written by Alessandro Camon. The film features Tessa Thompson in the sole on-screen role, portraying a dedicated helpline volunteer who engages with various callers, delving into their personal struggles and stories. This intimate and character-driven narrative explores themes of empathy, connection, and the human condition.
Production
The screenplay for “The Listener” was penned by Alessandro Camon, bringing a profound and nuanced story to life under the direction of Steve Buscemi. The film is an American co-production involving Olive Productions, Sight Unseen Pictures, and Hantz Motion Pictures. Principal photography took place in Los Angeles between August and September 2021, utilizing the city’s diverse locales to enhance the film’s atmospheric and emotional depth.
Release
“The Listener” made its world premiere on September 9, 2022, serving as the closing film for the Giornate Degli Autori section at the 2022 Venice International Film Festival. The film also featured in the Industry Selects section of the 2022 Toronto International Film Festival, garnering attention from international audiences and critics alike. In February 2024, Vertical Entertainment acquired distribution rights for North America, the United Kingdom, and Ireland, scheduling a day-and-date release in the United States on March 29, 2024.
Reception
Upon its release, “The Listener” received generally favorable reviews from critics. On Rotten Tomatoes, the film holds a 74% approval rating based on 46 reviews, with an average rating of 6.60/10, indicating a positive reception for its storytelling and performances. Metacritic assigned the film a score of 64 out of 100 based on 9 critic reviews, further reflecting its commendable critical acclaim and the impactful portrayal delivered by Tessa Thompson under Buscemi’s direction.
