The Only Living Boy in New York

The Only Living Boy in New York (2017), directed by Marc Webb, is a coming-of-age romantic drama that attempts to blend literary introspection with emotional turbulence in the heart of New York City. The film follows Thomas Webb, a recent college graduate played by Callum Turner, who is caught between the disillusionment of adulthood and the longing to become a writer. Living in Manhattan and feeling increasingly alienated from his wealthy, emotionally distant father (Pierce Brosnan) and fragile mother (Cynthia Nixon), Thomas’s life takes a sharp turn when he discovers that his father is having an affair with a beautiful, mysterious woman named Johanna (Kate Beckinsale). Obsessed and confused, Thomas begins following Johanna, only to find himself emotionally entangled in a secret affair with her as well.

Adding further complexity to the story is Thomas’s unexpected friendship with his new neighbor, W.F. Gerald (played with gravitas by Jeff Bridges), a reclusive writer who becomes a mentor-like figure. W.F. offers cryptic advice and existential insights that push Thomas toward self-discovery—though it becomes clear that he knows more about Thomas’s family than he initially reveals. As the story unfolds, hidden truths emerge that force Thomas to reconsider not only his relationships, but also his identity and place in the world.

The film’s title, borrowed from the Simon & Garfunkel song, reflects Thomas’s growing sense of isolation in a city that seems to be moving without him. Webb’s direction is visually polished, capturing New York’s melancholic elegance, but the narrative often struggles to find emotional depth. While the cast delivers strong performances—particularly Jeff Bridges and Kate Beckinsale—the screenplay occasionally leans too heavily on familiar tropes and literary references, giving the story an overly stylized, somewhat hollow feel.

Despite its flaws, The Only Living Boy in New York offers moments of quiet beauty and emotional resonance, especially in its portrayal of complex family dynamics and the pain of growing up. It attempts to be a modern-day Graduate for a younger generation, but lacks the sharpness and originality to fully succeed. Still, for viewers drawn to introspective dramas and stories about messy relationships and artistic longing, the film holds a certain quiet, lingering charm.