Choiceology with Katy Milkman cover image

Choiceology with Katy Milkman

A Numbers Game: With Guests Linda Chang & Stephen M. Colbert

Mar 24, 2025
Stephen M. Colbert, a keen observer of the film industry and co-host of a popular podcast, shares insights about the tumultuous relationship between DC and Marvel, highlighting how Rotten Tomatoes scores influenced fan expectations. He reveals the behind-the-scenes struggles of directors and studios in this ratings-obsessed environment. Linda Chang, a behavioral scientist, dives into 'quantification fixation,' explaining how our over-reliance on numbers can distort important decision-making. Together, they challenge listeners to look beyond digits in their choices.
29:37

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • The podcast highlights how Rotten Tomatoes scores significantly influence movie production decisions, shaping perceptions and altering creative directions.
  • It emphasizes the concept of quantification fixation, where numerical data often overshadows qualitative insights in decision-making processes.

Deep dives

The Vision of Cinematic Universe

The podcast discusses the ambitious vision behind transforming DC Comics into a cinematic universe, highlighting the monumental task faced by director Zack Snyder. Snyder aimed to create a compelling narrative around iconic heroes like Superman, blending themes of darkness, hope, and destiny. However, the project encountered significant challenges due to internal conflicts at Warner Bros. Studios, creating a clash between artistic vision and commercial expectations. As the studio pushed for broader market appeal, Snyder's unique and darker storytelling approach encountered resistance, complicating the development of the DC Extended Universe.

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