Common Sense Media Review
By Monique Jones
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Impressive, naturalistic, mature ode to gay 1970s icon.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 15+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Watch
Videos and Photos
Peter Hujar's Day
What's the Story?
PETER HUJAR'S DAY follows photographer Peter Hujar (Ben Whishaw) as he tells his friend, writer Linda Rosencrantz (Rebecca Hall), about his day during an interview that will eventually become the basis for Rosencrantz' same-named book. Peter details the ins and outs of his day, including being interviewed by Elle magazine, meeting with other people in the New York art scene, and lamenting the pitfalls of being a professional artist in an expensive, capitalist town like New York City.
Is It Any Good?
While the average filmgoer might not be up for the challenge that this drama is, those who like artistic films might find that it's just right for them. Peter Hujar's Day is relatively slow-paced, which helps create a naturalistic setting for the two characters' interview. The dialogue is also refreshingly realistic; characters don't speak perfectly, sometimes stumbling and stuttering like people do in real life. The film also faithfully re-creates the film-stock look of 1970s movies. Despite all of these positives, some folks might feel like the film is too slow—possibly even boring.
But if you're into more experimental films, give it a try: The actors faithfully portray realistic conversations and create documentary-esque scenes that are a testament to writer-director Ira Sachs' delicate, detailed eye. The craft of filmmaking is definitely on display in Peter Hujar's Day, and if you like seeing that craft in action, you might well like this film.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about friendship. How does writer-director Ira Sachs make it clear that Peter and Linda are good friends in Peter Hujar's Day?
Do you consider Peter a positive representation of a gay character? How does he feel about his life and celebrate his individuality?
How accurate do you think the movie is to what actually happened? Why might filmmakers sometimes adjust the facts in movies that are based on true stories?
Movie Details
- In theaters : November 7, 2025
- On DVD or streaming : January 6, 2026
- Cast : Rebecca Hall , Ben Whishaw
- Director : Ira Sachs
- Inclusion Information : Gay Movie Director(s) , Female Movie Actor(s) , Gay Movie Actor(s) , Gay Movie Writer(s) , Female Movie Writer(s)
- Studios : Janus Films , Sideshow
- Genre : Drama
- Topics : Arts , Friendship
- Character Strengths : Courage
- Run time : 76 minutes
- MPAA rating :
- Last updated : November 19, 2025
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