Caitlin Durante, co-host of The Bechdel Cast, dives into the complex mythology of Leonardo DiCaprio, exploring his cult-like celebrity status. They discuss his iconic film roles, the peculiar habits of his inner circle, and the contradictions in his environmental activism. The conversation touches on the nuances of celebrity worship, the dynamics of his romantic relationships, and the societal implications of his enduring popularity. Listeners are invited to reflect on the fine line between fandom and cult behavior, all while indulging in nostalgia for Titanic.
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Titanic Birthday Party
Amanda Montell threw a Titanic themed 30th birthday party for her friend.
The main activity was painting the birthday girl like one of Jack's French girls.
insights INSIGHT
Cult-Followed, Not Leader
Leonardo DiCaprio is less of a cult leader and more of a cult-followed figure.
He embodies both heartthrob and creep, underdog and problematic, creating a complex fascination.
insights INSIGHT
Water Motif
Leonardo DiCaprio frequently appears fully clothed underwater in his films.
This recurring motif is seen by some as a deliberate directorial choice, possibly to enhance DiCaprio's perceived acting prowess.
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In 'Cultish: The Language of Fanaticism,' Amanda Montell argues that the key to manufacturing intense ideology, community, and us/them attitudes in cults and cult-like groups lies in the use of language. The book delves into the verbal elements that make these communities 'cultish,' including the redefinition of words, euphemisms, and other linguistic tricks. Montell analyzes various groups such as Jonestown, Scientology, NXIVM, and even modern entities like SoulCycle and social media influencers, highlighting how these groups use language to create a sense of belonging and loyalty. The book is praised for its engaging narrative, original research, and incisive analysis of the power of language in shaping human behavior.
Word Slut
Word Slut
A Feminist Guide to Taking Back the English Language
Amanda Montell
Word Slut is a witty and insightful exploration of the complexities of language, particularly focusing on words that are often deemed offensive or taboo. Amanda Montell challenges societal norms and expectations surrounding language, arguing for a more nuanced and inclusive approach to word usage. The book examines the historical and cultural contexts of various words, demonstrating how their meanings and connotations have evolved over time. Montell encourages readers to reclaim words that have been weaponized against marginalized groups, promoting a more empowering and liberating relationship with language. Ultimately, Word Slut is a call for reclaiming language and using it as a tool for social justice and personal expression.
From ‘90s teen heartthrob to yacht-hopping, model-dating, climate-crusading enigma, Leonardo DiCaprio isn’t just an actor—he’s an institution. But at what point does the behavior of this Oscar-winning icon cross into something a little more… cultish? This week, Amanda is joined by Caitlin Durante of The Bechdel Cast to take a deep dive into the Church of Leo, unpacking the eerie loyalty of his fans, the oddly specific habits of his inner circle (no one over 25 shall pass), and the ways in which his environmental activism is both inspiring and contradictory. Why does Hollywood treat Leo like the last true movie star? Is he just an A-lister with a type, or is there something deeper (and maybe a little weirder) going on in his revolving door of Victoria’s Secret protégées? And most importantly—are we in the cult of DiCaprio just by watching Titanic for the 100th time? Tune in as we break down the mythology, the memes, and the man in the iron mask. 🚢🌍🔥
Sounds Like A Cult 
