The Man from Earth (2007) is a science fiction drama film directed by Richard Schenkman and written by Jerome Bixby. The film stars David Lee Smith as the protagonist, John Oldman, alongside an ensemble cast including Tony Todd, John Billingsley, Ellen Crawford, Annika Peterson, Richard Riehle, and William Katt. The movie is renowned for its unique, dialogue-driven narrative and philosophical depth.

The plot centers around John Oldman, a college professor who, during his farewell party, reveals to his colleagues an astonishing secret: he is an immortal who has lived for over 14,000 years. As the evening unfolds, John explains how he has survived through the ages, adopting new identities every ten years to avoid suspicion. His revelation leads to a series of intense and thought-provoking discussions among his friends, who are experts in various academic fields, including history, biology, anthropology, and psychology.

The film is set almost entirely in John’s living room, creating an intimate and intense atmosphere as the characters debate the plausibility of John’s story. They explore themes such as the nature of human existence, the history of civilization, and the intersection of science and religion. As the night progresses, John’s story challenges their beliefs and forces them to confront their understanding of reality.

The Man from Earth is distinguished by its minimalist production and reliance on strong performances and intellectual discourse rather than special effects or action. The film’s screenplay, written by Jerome Bixby, was his final work, completed on his deathbed, and is considered a masterpiece of speculative fiction.

The film received critical acclaim for its intelligent writing, compelling dialogue, and the performance of David Lee Smith. It has since gained a cult following, appreciated for its exploration of profound philosophical questions and its ability to engage audiences through conversation and ideas rather than spectacle.

The Man from Earth is a must-watch for fans of thought-provoking science fiction and those who enjoy films that explore the deeper aspects of human existence and history.