Irrational Man

How this film uses it

You see the murder through Abe's eyes. He follows the judge, learns his habits and decides on poison. His plan is calm and careful, and the film lets you see his reasoning before the act. When he feels reborn afterward, you are inside a mind that has talked itself into it.

Where to see it

The poisoning. Abe swaps his cup of juice for the judge's on a bench in the park while the judge reads the paper.

How this film uses it

Abe frames the killing as a favor for a mother who will lose her children. He has never met the judge and decides to help her in secret. The story gives him a hero's mission, but the film questions it, and Jill's discovery shows how self-serving it is.

Where to see it

The diner. Abe and Jill overhear a woman describe losing custody because of a corrupt judge, and Abe decides to act.

How this film uses it

Small objects come back to haunt Abe. He steals a key to the chemistry lab from Rita and is seen there by a student. The missing key and the student's account help Jill and Rita suspect him. Jill also finds notes in his copy of Crime and Punishment.

Where to see it

The break-in. Jill climbs into Abe's house and finds his notes on the murdered judge and Raskolnikov.

How this film uses it

Abe starts the film drinking and depressed, seeing no meaning in life. Once he decides to kill the judge, his mood lifts and he is happier with both Rita and Jill. The film asks you to be disturbed by how well it works for him.

Where to see it

The change after the decision. Abe becomes energetic and affectionate, and can finally have sex with Rita.

How this film uses it

The story was shot in Newport, Rhode Island, with the Salve Regina University campus standing in for the fictional Braylin College. The quiet college town is the sort of place where an ordinary day can hide a murder.

Where to see it

Abe's arrival. He joins the faculty at Braylin College and begins to catch the eye of Rita and Jill.