College Matters from The Chronicle Before There Was Woke, There Was 'PCU'
11 snips
Dec 10, 2024 
Zak Penn, co-writer of the cult classic 'PCU' and known for films like 'Free Guy,' discusses the film's satirical take on political correctness and its relevance today. He reflects on how 'PCU' humorously critiques student activism, identity politics, and the cultural dynamics of college life. The conversation highlights generational differences in perceptions of activism and the ongoing evolution of campus discourse, making 'PCU' resonate more than ever in today's divisive environment.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
PCU's Inspiration
- Zach Penn and Adam Leff wrote PCU based on their pre-frosh weekend at Wesleyan University.
- The film satirizes the extreme political correctness they experienced.
Double-Sided Satire
- PCU critiques both overly sensitive activism and those excessively bothered by it.
- The film suggests that valid concerns get overshadowed by extreme language.
Language Policing at Wesleyan
- At Wesleyan, Penn encountered rigid language policing, particularly in a Freud class.
- He felt that specific jargon was necessary to avoid misinterpretation and ostracization.
