Intelligence Squared Armando Iannucci, Jess Phillips and Jan Ravens on Satire in an Age of Absurdity
Feb 28, 2020
Armando Iannucci, celebrated comedy writer behind 'Veep', joins Labour MP Jess Phillips, known for her fierce political voice, and satirist Jan Ravens of 'Dead Ringers'. Together, they tackle the evolving role of satire amid rampant political absurdity and fake news. The trio debates whether humor can still hold power to account. They also dive into how the norms of political satire adapt in today’s media landscape, reflecting on the sensitive balance between critique and comedy, especially regarding female public figures.
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Chaplin's Hitler Satire
- Armando Iannucci's favorite satire is Charlie Chaplin's "The Great Dictator".
- It effectively satirized Hitler while addressing serious issues like Jewish ghettos.
Soothing Satire
- Jess Phillips finds "The Thick of It" to be excellent satire, soothed by Malcolm Tucker's tone.
- She also highlights "Brass Eye's" "Cake" episode, appreciating its insider humor.
Cook's Macmillan Impression
- Jan Ravens recounts Peter Cook's Macmillan impression in "Beyond the Fringe".
- Cook added a cheeky line about "sappy urgent vibrant young satirists" while Macmillan was in the audience.
