Pop Culture Happy Hour Marty Supreme and What’s Making Us Happy
Dec 24, 2025
Kate Young, a podcast producer and film and culture critic, joins to dissect the intriguing film Marty Supreme. They ponder Timothée Chalamet's captivating performance as an ambitious underdog in table tennis, compelling viewers despite his unlikable attributes. The conversation touches on the film's retro soundtrack and the Safdie brothers' unique storytelling style. As they evaluate the supporting cast, including Gwyneth Paltrow and Tyler, the Creator, Kate highlights the film's complex themes of ambition and morality, leaving listeners questioning their sympathy towards Marty.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Ambition Over Sport
- Marty Supreme centers on naked ambition and American male hubris more than table tennis skill.
- The film critiques ambition that harms others rather than showing traditional sports training or sacrifice.
Performance Carries The Film
- Timothée Chalamet delivers a mesmerizing, studied performance as an unlikable lead.
- His performance is what keeps viewers engaged even when the story doesn't fully compel.
You Get Pulled Into Marty's World
- The movie asks viewers to confront sympathizing with a selfish, destructive protagonist.
- Kate Young says the film intentionally makes you 'get got' by Marty's charisma despite his narcissism.