Actor Finn Bennett joins the hosts to discuss playing the character Peter Prior on True Detective. They explore the small-town setting in Alaska, character dynamics, and climate change concerns. The podcast also delves into the acting journey of Finn Bennett and speculations on suspects in the mystery plot.
True Detective sets a benchmark for TV crime dramas with star-studded casts and evolving narratives.
The podcast examines True Detective's critique of violence against women, exploring attempts to address these issues.
Night Country introduces eerie elements mirroring real-life mysteries, blending indigenous themes and character complexities.
The show's set design and visuals contribute to a suspenseful narrative, hinting at deeper connections and mysteries to unravel.
Insights from actor Finn Bennett offer behind-the-scenes glimpses into True Detective, focusing on themes of innocence and learning experiences on set.
Deep dives
Introduction to Vanity Fair's Still Watching Podcast
The Vanity Fair's Still Watching podcast offers insights into the most anticipated TV projects, industry moves, and awards races, where Hollywood reporters dive behind the scenes.
Return of True Detective
The return of True Detective, specifically Season 4, triggers mixed reactions. While some are skeptical due to past seasons, others appreciate its trend-setting impact on TV crime dramas. The show's evolution from a novel limited series to a star-studded cast sets a benchmark for the genre.
Exploring Themes and Criticism of True Detective
The discussion delves into the criticism of True Detective's portrayal of violence against women and misogyny in the first season. The podcast's exploration extends to the show's attempts to address these issues in subsequent seasons.
Introduction to the Night Country's Supernatural Elements
The podcast explores the eerie and supernatural elements introduced in the first episode of Night Country, mirroring real-life unsolved mysteries like the Mary Celeste and Diatlov Pass incidents. The incorporation of indigenous themes and tensions sets an intriguing stage for the show's unfolding narrative.
Character Dynamics and Family Relationships
The evolving relationships between characters like Liz Danvers, Hilary Buzza, and Chris Murphy are highlighted, particularly in the context of familial ties and the complexities of indigenous and white interactions in the Alaskan setting. The personal backstories and dynamics within the police force hint at deeper layers to be uncovered.
Set Design and Creepy Imagery
The commentary on set design and imagery featuring elements like spirals and oranges in the opening credits suggests deeper narrative connections. The eerie visuals of the abandoned lab and the chilling corpseacle scene contribute to a suspenseful and atmospheric viewing experience.
Predictions and Theories for Night Country
Predictions revolve around characters like Peter Pryor's father Hank and potential environmental activist involvements in the murders of the scientists reveal anticipated twists and unsolved mysteries. Speculations on characters like Hank Pryor and Fiona Shaw hint at their potential roles in the unfolding narrative.
Interview with Actor Finn Bennett
Insights from actor Finn Bennett provide behind-the-scenes perspectives on his involvement in the True Detective Night Country, offering details on audition experiences and interactions with renowned actors like Jodie Foster. The discussion covers themes of innocence, familial ties, and learning experiences on set.
Personal Connections and Cast Dynamics
The collaborative spirit and personal connections among the cast members, from exploring Iceland to bonding over food and movies, showcase a tight-knit production environment. The episode concludes with intriguing discussions on characters, mysteries, and the evolving narrative themes of Night Country.
Wrap-Up and Teasers for Part 2
The episode wraps up with a humorous segment on predictions for the resolution of mysteries and characters in Night Country, along with a playful rivalry over predicting the outcomes. The anticipation for future episodes and unraveling of secrets sets the stage for continued intrigue.
Richard, Chris, and Hillary head north to break down our introduction to Jodie Foster's Liz Danvers, the dual mysteries driving this season, and that mind-boggling final image. Plus, Finn Bennett joins to discuss playing naive young cop Peter Prior and how True Detective gave him Covid (twice!).
